pic01799 Tadamasa

The artwork presents a close-up portrait of a male figure, likely a theatrical performer given the elaborate makeup and costume. The composition is dominated by his face and upper torso, cropped tightly within a rectangular format. A pale yellow background provides a stark contrast to the subject’s features and attire.
Here we see a man with strikingly stylized facial markings – crimson around the eyes and mouth, extending down the chin in sharp lines. These theatrical pigments suggest an intense emotional state, possibly anger or righteous indignation. His expression is severe; his lips are pressed into a thin line, and his brow furrowed. The artist has rendered the hair as flowing white strands that cascade downwards, adding to the sense of dramatic movement.
The figure’s clothing consists of a dark, high-collared garment adorned with intricate patterns in gold and green. A decorative element, resembling stylized claws or foliage, is affixed to his shoulder. This detail contributes to the overall impression of theatricality and perhaps hints at a character associated with power or predatory nature.
The composition’s flatness, characteristic of woodblock prints, minimizes depth and emphasizes the two-dimensionality of the image. The lines are crisp and precise, contributing to a sense of controlled energy. A vertical inscription is visible on the left side of the frame, alongside a red seal – elements typical of Japanese printmaking conventions that provide contextual information regarding the artist and date of creation.
Subtly, the work explores themes of performance, identity, and emotional expression. The exaggerated makeup obscures individual features, suggesting a transformation into a character rather than a depiction of an actual person. This blurring of boundaries between reality and representation is central to the artwork’s appeal. The intensity of the figures gaze suggests a direct engagement with the viewer, inviting contemplation on the nature of theatrical illusion and its power to evoke emotion.