A Playbill for the Ichimura Theater 1715

This playbill for the Ichimura Theater was made by Torii Kiyomasu I, using woodblock printing, a technique synonymous with the vibrant artistic scene of Japan. The choice of wood as a material is significant. The print’s bold lines and flat planes of color come as a direct result of carving into the block and layering ink. Woodblock printing was a complex, collaborative process, involving the artist, the carver, the printer, and the publisher. Each contributed their expertise to the final product. The distinct visual style – the dynamic figures, the expressive lines, and the carefully chosen colors – not only reflect the aesthetic preferences of the time, but also the technical possibilities inherent in the woodblock process. This wasn’t just art; it was a product of skilled labor, aimed at a broad audience. Playbills like this served to advertise theatrical performances, bringing art and entertainment to the masses. The print’s production and distribution highlight the intersection of art, commerce, and social life in the bustling urban environment of early modern Japan.