Actor Ichikawa DanjÅ«rō 7th as Kagegiyo 

Curator: This print, by Utagawa Kunimasa, depicts the actor Ichikawa Danjuro the 7th as Kagekiyo. Editor: It has a rather brooding feel, doesn't it? The figure is so compact, like a coiled spring, ready to unleash. Curator: Absolutely, and the exaggerated scowl serves to amplify that tension. Kabuki prints like this weren't just portraits; they served as publicity, shaping the actor's brand. Editor: You see that connection between actor, character, and the wider public. It reflects the cultural importance of Kabuki theatre in Edo society and how it shapes perceptions of heroism. Curator: Precisely! And the artist uses those recognizable motifs to convey Kagekiyo's famous strength and tragic fate. Editor: Looking at this, I am reminded of the power of theatre to embody and transmit core values across generations. Curator: And perhaps a valuable glimpse into the values of the time.