Ichikawa Sadanji as Dozaemon Denkichi in a Kabuki Play 1882

Curator: This striking woodblock print from 1882 by Toyohara Kunichika presents Ichikawa Sadanji, a famous actor, in the role of Dozaemon Denkichi from a Kabuki play. You’ll find it on display here at the Met. Editor: Wow, that red really punches you in the face, doesn’t it? And the figure... his expression is incredible. There's such a brooding intensity there. I get the feeling of watching something unfold on a stage, a high drama that's frozen in time. Curator: Absolutely. Kabuki prints like this weren’t just souvenirs, they were integral to the whole theatrical event. They served as publicity, announcing the play and the star while showcasing the actor’s performance. Kunichika masterfully captures the theatricality. Editor: And think about the work that went into each print! Someone designing it, carving the blocks for each color, applying the ink so precisely. You feel the pressure of all the craft involved. The layering and details in the clothing especially pull me in, contrasting with the flat background. Curator: Precisely. And the use of that strong red background—mica, if I’m not mistaken—enhances the print, making it visually stand out in a bustling city. The success of the print would certainly be linked to the success of the play itself, and of course, the success of the actor, in this case Ichikawa Sadanji. Editor: It really does give a glimpse into that moment in time, doesn’t it? It’s more than just a portrait; it's a window into 19th century theater culture and its whole ecosystem of creating stories. Curator: Yes, absolutely. We start to consider how it reflects society itself and how performance and identity intersect. Editor: Well, this makes me want to go see Kabuki! Maybe in another lifetime, perhaps… Curator: Indeed! It allows for many insights to unpack, with a richer consideration on cultural exchange.