Actor Sakata Hangorō 2nd AS A WRESTLER 

Editor: This woodblock print, "Actor Sakata Hangorō 2nd AS A WRESTLER" by Katsukawa Shun'ei, feels so immediate and present. The actor’s expression is almost confrontational. How do we understand the social role of art during this period and what does this imagery suggest? Curator: Ukiyo-e prints like this one were incredibly popular, functioning almost as celebrity portraits or even news. The portrayal of actors, like Hangorō, elevated them to a public status, shaping perceptions of masculinity and performance. Consider the artist's decision to depict him as a wrestler. What does that say about the commercial and public demands of the time? Editor: So, the print isn't just art; it's part of a larger cultural phenomenon, a social currency? Curator: Precisely. It reflects the socio-political landscape, with artists responding to and shaping popular culture. Appreciating that context enriches our understanding beyond aesthetics. Editor: This helps me see the print as a historical document as much as a piece of art. Thanks!