Torii Kiyonobu I

Place: Osaka

Born: 1664

Death: 1729

Biography:

Torii Kiyonobu I, a renowned Japanese painter and printmaker, was born in 1664 and passed away on August 22, 1729. He is celebrated for his work in the ukiyo-e style, particularly on kabuki signboards and related materials. Along with his father Torii Kiyomoto, he is considered one of the founders of the Torii school of painting.

Early Life and Career

Known in childhood as Shōbei, young Kiyonobu was the second son of the established Osaka kabuki actor and painter Torii Kiyomoto. He moved to Edo (modern Tokyo) with his father at the age of twenty-four and emerged as a major artist with a unique style. Kiyonobu's work is regarded as being highly influenced by that of Hishikawa Moronobu, the father of ukiyo-e.

Artistic Style and Techniques

Kiyonobu focused almost exclusively on producing billboards and other promotional material for Edo's kabuki theaters. His style tended towards bold, colorful exuberance, with a distinctive use of color, details, and various other aesthetic elements. The Torii style is especially distinguished by the use of thick, bold lines. By 1700, Kiyonobu was a fully established and accomplished artist, with his works praised by contemporary writers.

Notable Works and Legacy

Some of Kiyonobu's notable works include illustrations for woodblock printed books depicting kabuki dramas, as well as individual prints. His relationship with the theaters and the Torii school was strong and important, and one that continues today. Ukiyo-e was central to forming the West's perception of Japanese art in the late 19th century, particularly the landscapes of Hokusai. Kiyonobu's contributions to this movement are still celebrated, with his works often being placed in Shintō shrines as votive offerings.

Influence and Impact

Kiyonobu's influence can be seen in the works of other artists, such as Torii Kiyomasu I, who was possibly his disciple or relative. The Torii school's style is characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors, which have become iconic in Japanese art. To learn more about Kiyonobu's work and the ukiyo-e movement, visit The Ukiyo-e Art Movement page on Wikioo.org.

• Ukiyo-e is a genre of Japanese art that flourished from the 17th through 19th centuries.
• Kiyonobu's works were praised by contemporary writers and often placed in Shintō shrines as votive offerings.
• The Torii school's style is characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors, which have become iconic in Japanese art.
• Kiyonobu's relationship with the theaters and the Torii school was strong and important, and one that continues today.

To explore more of Kiyonobu's works and the ukiyo-e movement, visit the Torii Kiyonobu I page on Wikioo.org.