Shikata nue, from the series "Famous Scenes from Japanese Puppet Plays (Yamato irotake)" c. 1705 - 1706

Okumura Masanobu created this woodblock print, Shikata nue, from the series "Famous Scenes from Japanese Puppet Plays" now at the Art Institute of Chicago. The print’s design immediately strikes you with its intricate patterns and the dynamic pose of the figure. The subject’s robe displays a bold checkered design, contrasting with the hexagonal pattern on the lower body, creating a juxtaposition of geometric forms. This tension is enhanced by the stark lines and shapes that define the figure and its accessories, such as the fan and sticks. The composition, though seemingly simple, uses a balance of positive and negative space. Masanobu employs a semiotic system of signs, drawing from the cultural codes of Japanese theatre and folklore. This combination destabilizes conventional representation, inviting us to reinterpret the interplay between form and narrative within the artwork. In doing so, it transcends mere aesthetics.