The artwork, titled “Kuroda Ukinaga, Japanese actor,” was created by Utagawa Kuniyoshi during the years 1810 to 1816. This piece belongs to the Ukiyo-e art movement and falls within the genre of portraiture.
In the artwork, Kuroda Ukinaga is depicted in traditional Japanese attire, wielding a katana. The intricate detailing of the actor’s costume, featuring a richly patterned blue robe with gold accents, exemplifies the intricacy and elegance characteristic of Kuniyoshi’s work. The actor’s poised stance, with bare feet and a focused expression, conveys a sense of readiness and concentration. The background remains simple, allowing the viewer to focus entirely on the finely rendered figure and the text that appears alongside, which likely identifies the subject. The artist’s signature and seal are visible, attesting to the authenticity and craftsmanship of the piece.
