Kiyonobu I

Kiyonobu I (Torii Kiyonobu I) kēyōnōˈbo͞o [key], 1664–1729, Japanese printmaker. Specializing in portraits of Kabuki actors, Kiyonobu I worked in the ukiyo-e print style (see Japanese art), concentrating on intricate elements of costume design. Flat and vividly colorful, Kiyonobu's work was notable for its sweeping contour lines and for the boldness of its composition. Kiyonobu was closely allied with the world of theater and frequently painted the actors in their best-known roles. His son, Kiyonobu II, 1702–52, collaborated with him and helped perpetuate his style.

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