Nakamura Noshio II in the Role of Imayō uta Bikuni 1796

This woodblock print depicts the actor Nakamura Noshio II embodying a street performer, a woman singing popular songs. Made in Japan, it reflects the floating world culture of the Edo period. Here we see a clear representation of a male actor portraying a female character, a common practice in Kabuki theater. These prints were often commissioned by fans as a kind of celebrity memorabilia. The actor's features are idealized, conforming to the aesthetic preferences of the time. But what’s more, this print acknowledges the existence of a whole social infrastructure around Kabuki. This includes not only actors and theaters, but also a whole audience of consumers. Further research into the social history of Kabuki theater would help us better understand the relationship between art, commerce, and celebrity culture. The image reminds us that art is not made in a vacuum but emerges from specific social and economic conditions.