Who painted Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV?

Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV was painted by Katsukawa Shunkō in 1786.

Where can I see Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV?

Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV?

Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV

Katsukawa Shunkō , 1786

Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV is a print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shunkō. It dates from 1786 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Actor Matsumoto Kōshirō IV is a Japanese woodblock print created by Katsukawa Shunkō in 1786. The work is part of the collection at The Cleveland Museum of Art.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Matsumoto Kōshirō IV, a renowned actor, in a dynamic pose. He kneels on one knee, holding a rooster in his left hand and resting his right hand on a tall spear, with a sword at his side. The rooster and spear may symbolize courage or a specific role, though the exact context is unclear.

Technique & Style

The composition features bold outlines, flat colors, and selective shading, particularly on the actor's face and arms. The rooster's feathers are detailed yet stylized, characteristic of Japanese woodblock printing techniques of the time. Strong lines and simple shapes convey a sense of movement and emphasize the actor's character.

History & Provenance

Created in 1786, the print is attributed to Katsukawa Shunkō. Its provenance prior to its acquisition by The Cleveland Museum of Art is not detailed here.

Context

This work reflects the ukiyo-e tradition, which often featured actors, landscapes, and scenes from everyday life. The emphasis on an actor suggests the print's appeal to a broad, theater-interested audience in late 18th-century Japan.

Legacy

As part of Katsukawa Shunkō's oeuvre, the print contributes to the understanding of late Edo period ukiyo-e, particularly in the depiction of actors. Its presence in a major museum collection facilitates ongoing study and appreciation of Japanese printmaking techniques and traditions.