Form: Ukiyo-e, Mokuhan print
Published: 1901
Publisher: 右田年英 (Migita Toshihide)
Notes: This is relatively the latest Ukiyo-e artwork made by Migita Toshihide, a Japanese artist, creating traditional Ukiyo-e prints and painting in the Western style. He was apprenticed to Tsukioka Yoshitoshi. This Ukiyo-e print reminds us of the Kabuki actor by the hairstyle of character. The background is covered with full grey clouds, making this kabuki actor look like the God of Kabuki. Also, since the dragon, 龍 (Ryū), is thought of as a god, the dragon’s robe he wears makes us think that he is close to a god, or a god-like being. I found his hair characteristic because this kabuki actor’s hair is depicted in great detail and with great suppleness, reflecting his incorporation of Western art.
