This pioneering study (takes as its topic) focuses on painting as performance in Japan between the 16th and 19th centuries. It offers an analysis of the various socio-economic settings and functions of this artistic practice, from elite entertainments, expressions of community and alternative artistic identities to public relations events. Diese Studie thematisiert erstmals die Praxis des Malens als Performance im Japan des 16.–19. Jahrhunderts. Unterschiedliche soziale und ökonomische Funktionen wie die Unterhaltung von Eliten, der Ausdruck von Identitäten oder die Vermarktung der Bildproduktion spiegeln den Wandel im Verhältnis von Maler und Publikum. Painting in the presence of members of the elite in the 16th century · The Ritualization of command performances in the presence of the Tokugawa shogun · Diversification of functions of painting performances in the presence of the shogun · Diplomatic relations and entertainment of the shogun’s guests · Painting performances in the presence of the emperor, courtiers and members of the warrior elite in Tokugawa Japan · Painting as performance of Identity · Cultural networks in 17th/18th century Japan – Communities of Creation, expression and Appreciation · Literati gatherings and topographies of communitas · Collaborative production as expression of communitas · Finger painting and eccentric identities · Performing painting as Business · The commercialization of culture in 18th century Japan · Illustrating crazy verses and popular fiction: Kyôka poets, gesaku writers and ukiyoe painters · Fame sells – building a name at calligraphy and painting parties (shogakai) · Performing painting as public relations event · Performing painting in an expanding world of Art