Bugaku Dancer c. 1800 - 1805

This woodblock print by Teisai Hokuba, made in Japan sometime between 1771 and 1844, shows a Bugaku dancer in costume. Bugaku is a traditional Japanese dance form that has been performed at the Imperial Court for over 1200 years. In Hokuba’s time, Japan was ruled by the Tokugawa shogunate, a military dictatorship that enforced a strict social hierarchy. The shogunate also promoted a policy of isolationism, limiting contact with the outside world. However, despite these restrictions, Japanese culture flourished during this period. This print is a product of its time, reflecting both the conservative values of the shogunate and the vibrant artistic scene of the Edo period. The image creates meaning through visual codes, cultural references, and historical associations. Understanding this artwork requires that we consult historical sources and study the social conditions that shaped its production. By doing so, we can gain a deeper appreciation of the artwork and its place in history.