Artwork

二代目中村助五郎|Kabuki Actor Nakamura Sukegorō II as Kaminari Shōkurō

二代目中村助五郎|Kabuki Actor Nakamura Sukegorō II as Kaminari Shōkurō is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It dates from 2 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This woodblock print, part of a pentaptych, depicts Kabuki actor Nakamura Sukegorō II in the role of Kaminari Shōkurō, created by artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It is now part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection.

Subject & Meaning

The print portrays Nakamura Sukegorō II as Kaminari Shōkurō, capturing the actor in a solemn pose with a sword and scroll, adorned in a black robe with red sashes, bamboo-cloud patterns, and distinctive facial markings.

Technique & Style

Executed in nishiki-e technique, the print features bold colors, sharp lines, and wide, flowing sleeves against a plain background, characteristic of late 18th-century Japanese woodblock printing.

History & Provenance

Created in the late 18th century by Katsukawa Shunshō, the print is currently housed at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, with its earlier ownership history not specified in available records.

Context

This work reflects the popularization of Kabuki theater in Edo-period Japan, with woodblock prints like this serving as promotional materials and reflections of contemporary theatrical culture.

Legacy

As a work by Katsukawa Shunshō, it contributes to the artist's notable output of Kabuki actor portraits, influencing the representation of theatrical figures in later Japanese art.