Fifty Nō Plays, Illustrated (Yōkyoku gojū-ban), 10th of 10 Volumes by Signed by Tosa Mitsuoki 土佐光起

Fifty Nō Plays, Illustrated (Yōkyoku gojū-ban), 10th of 10 Volumes

c. 17th century

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Artwork details

Dimensions
H. 33.8 x W. 24.8 cm (13 5/16 x 9 3/4 in.)
Location
Harvard Art Museums
Copyright
CC0 1.0

About this artwork

Curator: This artwork, titled "Fifty Nō Plays, Illustrated," is the tenth volume of a set signed by Tosa Mitsuoki. Editor: It feels so delicate! Like a whisper of a memory, faded blue on pale green. The repeated fan motif has a calming rhythm. Curator: These plays, known as Yokyoku, were a vital part of the cultural and political landscape. Mitsuoki's illustrations often reflected societal values and artistic trends of his time. Editor: I love how the text block sits. It's like a little golden island floating on a sea of tranquility. Wonder what secrets those characters hold? Curator: Considering Nō's roots in ritual and storytelling, the composition perhaps suggests layers of hidden meanings, accessible only through deep engagement. Editor: It makes me think about how stories shift over time, like reflections in water. Curator: Indeed, and the study of such works allows us insight into identity formation and the construction of knowledge. Editor: Right, it reminds us that everything is always changing, and it's up to us to decide what to keep.

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