Kabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima Shingoro

Kabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima Shingoro

Torii Kiyomasu I

An item at Metropolitan Museum of 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.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Kabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima ShingoroKabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima ShingoroKabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima ShingoroKabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima ShingoroKabuki Actors Nakamura Gentaro and Ikushima Shingoro

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.