Japanese Actor in a Kimono, George Hendrik Breitner, c. 1884 - c. 1886

black chalk, h 191mm × w 117mm More details

In this sketchbook Breitner did not draw a contemporary model in Japanese attire, but instead copied a figure from a Japanese woodcut. This is probably a Kabuki actor, the Japanese form of drama in which male actors perform in exuberant costumes. In this sketch Breitner primarily explored the kimono’s construction and folds. The little drawing at the upper right possibly represents the back of the intricate collar.