pic07278 Tadamasa

The artwork presents a dramatic portrait of a male figure, likely a performer in traditional Japanese theatre. He is depicted from the chest upwards, occupying most of the frame with his intense expression and elaborate costume. The composition is dominated by a strong diagonal line created by his posture – he appears to be turning away slightly, as if reacting to something unseen.
The man’s face is rendered with striking detail, emphasizing exaggerated features characteristic of Kabuki theatre makeup. His eyes are wide and fierce, the eyebrows sharply angled, and the mouth set in a grimace that conveys suppressed rage or anguish. The heavy application of white paint on his face contrasts starkly with the deep red around his eyes and mouth, creating a heightened sense of theatricality and emotional intensity.
The costume is equally elaborate. A richly patterned collar adorns his neck, while the upper portion of his garment features a complex design in shades of blue and cream. The hair, styled into an intricate topknot, further contributes to the overall impression of formality and ritualistic performance.
A window or architectural element appears faintly behind the figure, suggesting a stage setting but remaining deliberately blurred to maintain focus on the performer. The background is rendered with broad strokes of pale yellow, providing a neutral backdrop that allows the colors and details of the subject to stand out.
Inscribed vertically along the right edge are Japanese characters – likely titles or signatures related to the artwork’s creation. These inscriptions add another layer of cultural context, hinting at the works place within a specific artistic tradition. The overall effect is one of controlled drama, capturing a fleeting moment of intense emotion during a theatrical performance. The artist seems interested in conveying not just a likeness but also the psychological state and performative nature of the subject.