The Actor Ichikawa Komazo I as a Man Holding a Monkey Mask 1764 - 1771

This is a woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, made around the late 18th century, depicting the actor Ichikawa Komazo I. A dominant feature is the texture of the background which provides a stark contrast to the smooth planes of colour that define the figure. The composition is striking in its use of colour: the ochre tones create a subdued yet intense visual field. The actor is rendered in shades of red and black, drawing our eye to his stern expression and the monkey mask he holds aloft. His gaze is directed away, heightening the sense of narrative and inviting speculation about the scene's significance. Bunchō masterfully uses line and form to convey the weight and presence of the actor. The semiotic interplay of actor and mask speaks to the theatrical traditions of the time. The use of a mask creates the space to reflect on identity and representation, reflecting the fluidity between performance and reality. Ultimately, this print exemplifies how formal elements work together to engage viewers in considering how the artist captures a transient moment in the theatre.