Artwork

Iwai Hanshiro IV in a Dance of Seven Changes

Iwai Hanshiro IV in a Dance of Seven Changes, by Katsukawa Shun'ei 勝川春英, 1793
Iwai Hanshiro IV in a Dance of Seven Changes, by Katsukawa Shun'ei 勝川春英, 1793

Iwai Hanshiro IV in a Dance of Seven Changes is a print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shun'ei 勝川春英. It dates from 1793 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

This painting is called Iwai Hanshiro IV in a Dance of Seven Changes.
It was made by Katsukawa Shunei, a Japanese artist, around 1793 or 1794.
The painting is part of the Romanticism movement, which is interesting because it was not as common in Japanese art at that time.
You can learn more about this style at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Overview

Iwai Hanshiro IV in a Dance of Seven Changes is a print created by Katsukawa Shunei around 1793-1794. It is a representative work of the artist's expertise in ukiyo-e, a style of Japanese art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Iwai Hanshiro IV, a kabuki actor, in a dynamic pose from a Dance of Seven Changes. Shunei's work captures the essence of kabuki performance, highlighting the actor's expression and movement.

Technique & Style

Shunei was known for his yakusha-e portraits, particularly detailed bust portraits like ōkubi-e, which he began producing in 1791. This print showcases his skill in conveying theatrical energy through composition and detail.

Context

While associated with the Romanticism movement, this print is more accurately characterized by its roots in ukiyo-e, a distinct Japanese art form. Its connection to Romanticism reflects the diverse influences present in late 18th-century art.

Artist & collection

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Cleveland Museum of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.