Untitled

Torii Kiyomasu I

ca. 1710 · Woodblock print; ink and color on paper · Asian Art

Torii artists dominated the production of prints of Kabuki actors. To enliven those done in ink, red and yellow pigments were often directly brushed onto the prints (tan-e) about the time of the Genroku and Shotoku eras (1688–1716). Colors were added within the printed outlines of the costumes. Vibrant, expressive ink lines convey a freedom of spirit and a sense of emotion. In a manner unique to the early ukiyo-e style, Kiyonobu and Kiyomasu animated robes with fluid lines, swirling patterns, and boldly designed motifs to suggest their wearers' vitality.

Artist

Torii Kiyomasu I

Date

ca. 1710

Medium

Woodblock print; ink and color on paper

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

The Francis Lathorp Collection, Purchase, Frederick C. Hewitt Fund, 1911