The Actor Ichikawa Yaozō III as Fuwa Banzaemon in a Thunder Robe, Playing with a Fan 1794

Editor: Let's explore Katsukawa Shun'ei's woodcut print from 1794, “The Actor Ichikawa Yaozō III as Fuwa Banzaemon in a Thunder Robe, Playing with a Fan,” currently residing at the Met. The patterned robe and serious expression give it such a distinctive and, I think, powerful mood. How do you interpret this portrayal? Curator: Well, first off, we're seeing more than just a portrait; we’re seeing the representation of celebrity culture of the Edo period. Ukiyo-e prints like this served almost as publicity stills. Note the elaborate costume; theatre was a major cultural force, and actors were trendsetters. But think about what this image *does*. Who was the intended audience, and how did the consumption of images shape societal values or ideals? Editor: So, these prints weren't just art for art's sake; they had a specific function within the social fabric? Did the prints themselves maybe contribute to celebrity image-making in a way that impacted the actors’ real life reputations? Curator: Precisely. The artist and publisher played a critical role in crafting a public persona, distributing it widely. Ask yourself: what values and attributes of Fuwa Banzaemon are emphasized here, and what does that reveal about the play’s intended message? Do we see that character’s perceived ‘essence’ reflected in other cultural products of the time? Editor: I see! So, the thunder robe isn't just costume; it connects the actor to a role, and that role speaks to something bigger in society. It really shifts the focus away from simply appreciating aesthetics, right? Curator: Exactly. We're seeing a complex interaction between art, performance, and society, influencing ideals of masculinity and honour through performative images and commercial means. Editor: Wow, this totally changed how I see these Ukiyo-e prints. Thanks! Curator: My pleasure! Hopefully it encouraged you to think about how an artwork can also function as a cultural artifact shaping the reception and production of art!