Scene From the Second Act of the Drama “Kawaranu Hana Sakae Hachinoki”

Description

Katsukawa Shunshō presents a scene from the second act of Kawaranu Hana Sakae Hachinoki, preserving a particular point within a dramatic sequence. Two actors occupy different levels within a room, one standing while the other is seated or crouched below. Richly patterned pale robes and warm architectural trim give the gathering its setting, making the difference in posture an active part of their dramatic relationship.

Dated to the twelfth month of 1769, the nishiki-e work uses ink and color on paper. The print gives a transient performance a durable form, allowing its participants and their represented situation to be considered closely. Shunshō’s interest lies in that concentration of drama within a single image. The work keeps the suggestion of a wider narrative alive while making one scene available to an intimate, sustained act of looking.

Read our guide to giclée prints or browse the Katsukawa Shunshō collection.