Actors Ichikawa DanjÅ«rō 7th Holding the White Banner of the Genji (Minamoto) Clan and Iwai Shijaku 1st in a Genpei Play c. 1827 - 1830

Editor: Here we have Utagawa Kunisada's "Actors Ichikawa DanjÅ«rō 7th Holding the White Banner of the Genji (Minamoto) Clan and Iwai Shijaku 1st in a Genpei Play." The actors’ garments are incredibly detailed. What strikes you about the composition? Curator: The print demonstrates a masterful use of line and color to convey dynamic tension. Observe how the bold, graphic patterns of the costumes contrast with the flat, unmodulated background. The actors’ poses, especially the strained expression of DanjÅ«rō, contribute to the heightened drama. Do you notice how the negative space frames the banner? Editor: Yes, the banner is definitely highlighted. I appreciate the way you pointed out the contrast. Curator: Indeed, it's in these formal elements that the print's enduring appeal resides. Editor: I’ll definitely look for that in other works now.