Artwork

二代目市川門之助|Kabuki Actor Ichikawa Monnosuke II as Shinozuka in a Shibaraku (Stop Right There!) Scene

二代目市川門之助|Kabuki Actor Ichikawa Monnosuke II as Shinozuka in a Shibaraku (Stop Right There!) Scene is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shunkō. It dates from 11 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Kabuki actors often played multiple roles, and this one looks fierce—like he’s ready for action.

This print shows a kabuki actor in a dramatic pose. He’s wearing a tall, red wig and a patterned robe, holding a fan and a sword. Behind him is a red curtain with a white symbol, and his feet rest on a torn cloth. The lines on his face and clothes are sharp and bold.

Kabuki actors often played multiple roles, and this one looks fierce—like he’s ready for action. The print was made in 1790 by a Japanese artist who specialized in capturing actors.

Next, check out kabuki actor performances to see how these poses translate to real stage moves.

Overview

This woodblock print, created in 1790 by Katsukawa Shunkō, depicts a kabuki actor in a dramatic pose. The Metropolitan Museum of Art holds this work, which showcases the artist's skill in capturing the intensity of kabuki performances.

Subject & Meaning

The print features Ichikawa Monnosuke II as Shinozuka in a Shibaraku scene, a dramatic moment frozen in time. The actor's fierce expression and poised stance convey a sense of readiness for action, highlighting the dynamic nature of kabuki theater.

Technique & Style

The print is characterized by bold, sharp lines that define the actor's facial features and patterned robe. The use of ink and color on paper creates a striking visual effect, with the red curtain and wig drawing the viewer's attention to the central figure.