Artwork

九代目市村羽左衛門・三代目大谷廣次|Kabuki Actors Ichimura Uzaemon IX as Ko-kakeyama and Ōtani Hiroji III as Kōga Saburō

九代目市村羽左衛門・三代目大谷廣次|Kabuki Actors Ichimura Uzaemon IX as Ko-kakeyama and Ōtani Hiroji III as Kōga Saburō is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It dates from 1771 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

This woodblock print, dated circa 1771, features two prominent kabuki actors in dramatic poses, capturing the intensity of a theatrical scene.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts Ichimura Uzaemon IX as Ko-kakeyama, standing with a spear and fierce expression, and Ōtani Hiroji III as Kōga Saburō, kneeling in a red-and-green outfit, holding a fan and rope, conveying the emotional depth of their characters.

Technique & Style

Executed in nishiki-e technique with ink and color on paper, the print showcases bold lines, vibrant colors, and exaggerated facial makeup, characteristic of kabuki theater illustrations designed to mirror the dramatic flair of stage performances.

History & Provenance

Created by Katsukawa Shunshō, the print is part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, highlighting its significance in the oeuvre of the artist and the museum's holdings.

Context

The work reflects the artistic synergy between ukiyo-e woodblock printing and kabuki theater in 18th-century Japan, with Shunshō's style influencing the visual representation of theatrical arts during this period.

Legacy

As a notable example of Shunshō's kabuki-themed prints, it contributes to the broader legacy of ukiyo-e in capturing and promoting the drama of kabuki, leaving a lasting impact on Japanese art history.