pic01796 Tadamasa

Here we see a vertically oriented woodblock print depicting a male figure in elaborate theatrical attire. The composition is dominated by his frontal presence, filling nearly the entire frame and conveying a sense of imposing authority. His expression is intensely dramatic – furrowed brow, tightly pressed lips, and wide-set eyes contribute to an overall impression of suppressed rage or intense concentration. This suggests a character experiencing significant emotional turmoil within a narrative context.
The artist has employed a stark contrast between light and shadow to accentuate the figure’s features and create a sense of depth. The heavy black outlines characteristic of ukiyo-e prints define his form, while selective shading highlights the planes of his face and the folds in his clothing. This technique enhances the theatricality of the scene, emphasizing the performative nature of the subject.
The costume itself is richly detailed and visually complex. Layers of patterned fabrics – greens, yellows, and reds – create a vibrant tapestry that draws the eye. The elaborate design likely signifies the character’s status or role within the play. A large black cloak partially obscures the figures body, adding to his enigmatic presence and hinting at hidden depths.
The inclusion of Japanese script in both vertical columns on either side of the figure and horizontally along the bottom edge suggests a narrative element – possibly a title, scene description, or actor’s name. These textual elements ground the image within a specific cultural context and provide clues about its intended meaning for an audience familiar with traditional Japanese theater.
The cropped view of what appears to be a prop – perhaps a fan or a ceremonial object – held close to his face further reinforces the sense that this is a moment captured from a performance, rather than a portrait. The positioning of the prop also directs the viewer’s gaze towards the figures face and expression, emphasizing the emotional intensity of the scene. Overall, the print conveys a powerful sense of drama, tradition, and carefully constructed theatricality.