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Perspective View of the Interior of the Nakamura Theater with Ichikawa Ebizo II as Yanone Goro
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Perspective View of the Interior of the Nakamura Theater with Ichikawa Ebizo II as Yanone Goro
Perspective View of the Interior of the Nakamura Theater with Ichikawa Ebizo II as Yanone Goro, 1740. The print illustrates the typical interior of a Kabuki theater. The stage was connected to the audience by the hanamichi, the ramp or runway extending from the stage to the rear of the theater over which the actors would strut in dramatic roles. Patrons often stayed all day for the plays. Unlike quiet Western audiences, Kabuki fans were spirited, buying food from vendors and even shouting praises to their favorite actors as they came onto the stage. In 1734, the first Japanese manual on perspective was printed. Masanobu was probably the first printmaker to use this method of describing three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional support. He helped popularize the perspective print, and he introduced other innovations such as two-colour printing and hand-colouring--this print is hand-coloured using yellow, red (tan), and red-brown
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Media ID 19638086
© Heritage Art/Heritage Images
1615 1868 Hand Coloured Woodblock Print Okumura Masanobu 1686 1764
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This photo print, titled "Perspective View of the Interior of the Nakamura Theater with Ichikawa Ebizo II as Yanone Goro" takes us back to 1740 and offers a glimpse into the world of Kabuki theater. The artwork beautifully illustrates the typical interior of a Kabuki theater, showcasing its intricate design and vibrant atmosphere. One notable feature depicted in this print is the hanamichi, a runway extending from the stage to the rear of the theater. This elevated pathway allowed actors to strut dramatically towards their audience, creating an immersive experience for spectators. Unlike Western theaters where silence is cherished, Kabuki fans were known for their spirited engagement. They would stay all day for plays, indulging in food bought from vendors within the theater premises and even shouting praises to their favorite actors as they graced the stage. The artist behind this masterpiece, Masanobu, was not only skilled but also innovative. He was one of the first printmakers to utilize perspective techniques in his work during a time when such methods were relatively new in Japan. Additionally, Masanobu introduced other groundbreaking elements like two-color printing and hand-coloring – evident in this particular piece through shades of yellow, red (tan), and red-brown hues. This hand-colored print by Heritage Art/Heritage Images allows us to appreciate both historical significance and artistic excellence simultaneously while offering us a window into Japan's rich cultural heritage that continues to captivate audiences worldwide today.
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