Created from high-quality wood, milled with simple clean lines and presented with a satin finish. Includes an off-white mount that will not discolour or fade with age. - Simple, elegant design - Premium, fine art paper with a gently textured surface - Handmade by specialist picture framers - FSC certified off-white mat / window mount - Delivered ready for hanging

"Actor in the Role of the Dragon God Kasuga" by Kogyo Tsukioka is a captivating woodblock print, characterized by its intricate line work and delicate use of color. Created in August 1925, this piece embodies the elegance and theatricality of traditional Japanese Noh theater, a primary subject for Tsukioka throughout his artistic career.

At the heart of the print stands a Noh actor impeccably adorned in full costume, embodying the Dragon God Kasuga. The character itself, hailing from Japanese mythology and Noh drama, is depicted with an air of regal authority and mysticism. The actor's costume is a masterpiece in its own right, meticulously detailed with flowing robes that cascade in layers of sumptuous fabric. The pattern work on the robe features intricate designs that are traditional to Noh attire, often symbolizing elements of nature or divine imagery.

The color palette is subtle but effective, utilizing earthy tones and splashes of gold and crimson to evoke both the grandeur of the stage and the ethereal quality of the deity represented. Tsukioka's mastery is evident in the way he captures the intricate embroidery of the actor's costume with delicate brushstrokes and precise woodblock printing techniques. The background of the print is kept minimalist, ensuring that the viewer's focus remains steadfast on the commanding presence of the central figure.

The actor's face, partly obscured by a traditional mask, conveys a haunting serenity. The mask itself is beautifully rendered, highlighting Tsukioka's ability to convey deep emotion through minimalistic depiction. The details extend to the actor's posture, which is poised and dignified, perfectly encapsulating the disciplined art form of Noh theatre.

The original print of "Actor in the Role of the Dragon God Kasuga" is part of the collection at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. This museum is known for its extensive and diverse art collection, which includes works from all over the world.

Kogyo Tsukioka (1869-1927) was a prominent Japanese artist renowned for his woodblock prints, particularly those focusing on the Noh theatre. His career spanned the late Meiji to Taisho periods, during which he played a crucial role in revitalizing traditional Japanese art forms while integrating modern techniques and sensibilities. Tsukioka’s dedication to Noh theatre ensured that this unique aspect of Japanese culture was immortalized through his art.

Kogyo Tsukioka’s works fit within the broader movement of Shin-Hanga ("New Prints"), a 20th-century artistic movement in Japan that sought to rejuvenate ukiyo-e prints with contemporary subjects and modern sensibilities. His focus on traditional Noh theatre also aligns him with the Nihonga movement, which emphasized traditional Japanese artistic techniques and themes in the face of increasing westernization.

- Cultural Significance: The depiction of Noh theatre in "Actor in the Role of the Dragon God Kasuga" not only serves as a visual delight but also as a cultural artifact, preserving the aesthetics and spirit of a classical Japanese art form.
- Technical Mastery: Tsukioka’s print demonstrates expert use of the woodblock printing technique, a delicate process that requires precision and patience.
- Historical Context: Created in the 1920s, the piece reflects a time when Japan was navigating its identity amidst rapid modernization, making Tsukioka’s adherence to traditional themes especially poignant.

This painting is a testament to Kogyo Tsukioka’s dedication to preserving the beauty of traditional Japanese theatre and his technical prowess as an artist.