pic07259 Tadamasa

The artwork presents a close-up portrait of a male figure, likely a performer in traditional Japanese theatre. The composition is vertically oriented, emphasizing height and creating a sense of formality. A significant portion of the frame is occupied by the subjects face and upper torso, drawing immediate attention to his expression and costume details.
The man’s features are rendered with stark contrasts between light and shadow, typical of ukiyo-e woodblock prints. His skin appears pale against the darker tones of his elaborate makeup, which includes exaggerated white foundation, rouged cheeks, and precisely painted eyebrows that convey a sense of intense emotion – likely anger or righteous indignation. The eyes are narrowed, conveying suspicion or suppressed rage. A furrowed brow reinforces this impression.
The costume is equally striking. He wears what appears to be armor, indicated by the segmented shoulder piece and decorative collar. The patterns on the collar feature geometric motifs in a muted palette of gold and brown, adding visual complexity without distracting from the face. The dark, voluminous wig frames his head, further emphasizing the theatrical nature of the presentation.
In the upper left corner, a rectangular panel contains Japanese calligraphy, likely providing information about the performer or the play being depicted. This inscription serves as an integral part of the artwork’s narrative context.
The overall effect is one of controlled drama and stylized representation. The artist has skillfully employed techniques of shading, line work, and color to create a compelling portrait that transcends mere likeness. It suggests a moment frozen in time from a theatrical performance, capturing the intensity and artistry inherent in traditional Japanese performing arts. The deliberate flatness of the image, characteristic of woodblock prints, contributes to its graphic power and iconic quality.