Actor Onoe Matsusuke IV as Kohei 1925

Natori Shunsen made this woodblock print of Actor Onoe Matsusuke IV as Kohei sometime in the 20th century. Look at the lines here, how they define the face and clothing of the actor. You can almost feel the pressure of the hand carving the block. It's interesting to think about the labor involved, repeating the same marks to create a cohesive image. Notice how the thin, dark lines create a sense of depth and shadow, especially around the eyes and mouth, conveying the actor's intensity. The color is restrained, mostly pale pinks and blues, allowing the stark black lines to dominate. I'm reminded of the work of contemporary printmakers like Tomma Abts, who also use repetition and precise lines to create complex abstract compositions. Ultimately, the enduring appeal of Shunsen's work, and indeed all great art, lies in its ability to evoke a feeling.