Scene from a Drama 1710 - 1713

Okumura Masanobu created this woodblock print titled 'Scene from a Drama' in Japan, sometime in the first half of the 18th century. It depicts a group of figures in what appears to be a domestic setting, possibly engaged in a theatrical performance or a scene from popular literature. The monochromatic style, combined with the intricate patterns on the figures' kimonos, suggest a culture deeply invested in both artistic expression and social decorum. Kabuki theatre was one of the dominant art institutions of the era. The actors were cultural celebrities, whose images were widely disseminated in prints like this one. The print's success depended on a close relationship between artist, publisher, and the theatre itself. By studying the social and institutional history of Japanese printmaking, we can better understand the complex cultural meanings embedded in this seemingly simple image. After all, art always reflects the social context in which it is made.