Actor ōtani Hiroji wielding a Lantern c. 18th century

Editor: This is "Actor ōtani Hiroji wielding a Lantern" by Ippitsusai Bunchō. It seems to be a woodblock print on paper. The actor's got this intense look on his face, and I wonder, what's the story behind his pose? Curator: Consider how prints like these democratized art, making Kabuki actors accessible to the masses. Does the actor's gaze suggest defiance, or perhaps a more nuanced commentary on his role within the theatrical production? Editor: I see what you mean. So, it's not just a portrait, but a statement about accessibility and maybe the actor's social role? I hadn't thought about it that way. Curator: Exactly! It’s a snapshot of a performance and a social commentary all in one. A real moment in time caught within broader cultural currents. Editor: That's fascinating. I'll definitely look at these prints differently now. Curator: Glad to hear it. Keep questioning, keep connecting the dots!