Artwork

「仙素道人」五代目市川海老蔵「児雷也」初代実川延三郎|Ichikawa Ebizō V as Senso Dōjin (right); Jitsukawa Ensaburō as Jiraiya (left)

「仙素道人」五代目市川海老蔵「児雷也」初代実川延三郎|Ichikawa Ebizō V as Senso Dōjin (right); Jitsukawa Ensaburō as Jiraiya (left) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Hasegawa Sadanobu. It dates from 1854 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This pair of woodblock prints, created by Hasegawa Sadanobu in 1854, depicts two actors in character. The prints are executed in ink and color on paper, in the vertical chūban format.

Subject & Meaning

The prints show Ichikawa Ebizō V as Senso Dōjin and Jitsukawa Ensaburō as Jiraiya, two characters likely from a theatrical performance. The actors' bold makeup and costumes are accentuated by the artist's use of vibrant colors and expressive facial features.

Technique & Style

The artist employed a style that emphasizes the actors' dramatic expressions through thick outlines and flat colors, making their faces stand out against a simple background. The use of bold patterns and bright colors adds to the overall visual impact.

Context

These prints were likely tied to the world of theater, specifically the performances of the actors depicted. The characters and costumes suggest a connection to traditional Japanese drama.