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The painting “One of the Portraits from the Collection of Portraits, Portraits of Actor” by Toyohara Kunichika is a compelling example of the traditional Japanese woodblock print, or Ukiyo-e, which flourished during the Edo period. Kunichika, born in 1835 and active until his death in 1900, was one of the most renowned artists of this movement. His primary focus was on Kabuki theater actors, encapsulating their vivid expressions and dynamic performances.

The portrait exemplifies Kunichika's meticulous approach to capturing the essence of Kabuki actors in their elaborate costumes and dramatic expressions. In this particular portrait, the actor is depicted in mid-performance, his face alive with intensity and emotion. He wears an elaborate kimono, richly detailed with intricate patterns that reflect his character's status and story. The kimono likely features bold colors such as deep reds, blues, and gold accents, typical of Kunichika’s work.

The actor’s face, a focal point of the piece, is meticulously painted with exaggerated makeup— kumadori— which highlights his eyes and mouth to express emotion vividly. The expression captured is a dramatic mix of fierceness and focus, with eyes glaring intensely and mouth slightly open, as though he is in the midst of delivering a powerful line or reacting to a crucial moment in the play.

Behind the actor, the background is subtly adorned with elements indicating an Edo period setting, which might include partial views of traditional Japanese architecture or stylized nature motifs such as clouds or waves, done in subdued tones to make the actor stand out prominently.

The original painting can be found in collections such as the Tokyo National Museum or the Honolulu Museum of Art, where several significant works of Kunichika are housed. These institutions preserve and showcase the vibrant history of Kabuki theater and Ukiyo-e art, of which Kunichika's portraits are an integral part.

Kunichika’s career spanned a transformative period in Japan as it opened to Western influences during the Meiji Restoration. His work, however, remained steadfastly committed to traditional Japanese subjects and techniques, making him a crucial figure in the preservation and evolution of Ukiyo-e. He was a student of the great Utagawa Kuniyoshi and he carried forward his master’s passion for bold color and dynamic composition.

Kunichika’s portraits, particularly of Kabuki actors, are significant for their historical value. They help present-day viewers understand the cultural and social fabric of Edo-period Japan. His ability to capture the dramatic flair of Kabuki performances earned him a reputation for psychological depth and technical skill. Through prints like “One of the Portraits from the Collection of Portraits, Portraits of Actor,” Kunichika immortalized the ephemeral art of theater, ensuring that the stylized passion of the actors continued to resonate far beyond the stage.

- Technical Aspects: Kunichika employed sophisticated woodblock printing techniques which involved multiple blocks for different colors, worked in harmony to create vivid and lasting prints.
- Cultural Context: The portraits are not just art pieces but are windows into the popular culture of Edo-period Japan, reflecting the widespread fandom of Kabuki theater.
- Legacy: Kunichika's work has influenced many modern artists and continues to be celebrated for its dynamic portrayal of Japanese theater.

In summary, Toyohara Kunichika’s “One of the Portraits from the Collection of Portraits, Portraits of Actor” is a masterpiece of Ukiyo-e, capturing the vibrant essence of Kabuki theater and reflecting the profound cultural milieu of Edo-period Japan.