Actor Matsumoto Koshirō II in a Sukeroku Play c. 1794

Curator: This is Katsukawa Shun'ei's woodblock print of "Actor Matsumoto Koshirō II in a Sukeroku Play," currently held at the Harvard Art Museums. Editor: It has a rather constrained palette, yet it feels lively. The geometries really strike me—the stark lines of the architecture against the organic cherry blossoms. Curator: Indeed, the cherry blossoms are evocative. In Japanese culture, they symbolize the fleeting nature of life, beauty, and mortality, themes often explored in Kabuki theater. Editor: And the actor's garb, a bold green and white check, contrasted with his striped trousers—creates a visual rhythm. It's almost a study in contrasts. Curator: The costume, combined with the stylized makeup, offers insight into the character's role and the play's narrative. Sukeroku often embodies a heroic figure, fighting for justice. Editor: Knowing that context really enriches the viewing experience. It gives such depth to what could otherwise be seen as a simple portrait. Curator: Precisely. Shun'ei masterfully captured not just the actor's likeness, but also the cultural weight of the role he's portraying.