Who painted 松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu?

松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu was painted by Katsushika Hokusai in 1796.

Where can I see 松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu?

松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu is held by Metropolitan Museum of Art.

What movement is 松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu?

松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu is associated with Japonisme.

Artwork

松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu

Katsushika Hokusai , 1796

松本幸四郎|Matsumoto Koshiro IV as Tsurifune no Sabu is an ink print by the Japonisme artist Katsushika Hokusai. It dates from 1796 and is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Created around 1796 by the Japanese printmaker Katsushika Hokusai, this woodblock portrait depicts the kabuki performer Matsumoto Koshiro IV in the role of Tsurifune no Sabu. Executed in ink and color on paper, the work is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection and exemplifies the ukiyo-e tradition of actor prints.

Subject & Meaning

The figure is shown in a striped kimono with a vivid red sash, holding a fan in one hand and a scroll in the other, while a small sword rests at his belt. The costume and accessories identify the character of Sabu, a popular role in Edo‑period kabuki, allowing viewers to recognize the actor’s stage persona.

Technique & Style

Hokusai employs the characteristic bold line work and flat areas of color typical of ukiyo-e prints. The composition features a simple sloping roof and two red lanterns with white motifs above the figure, creating a clear, graphic contrast that emphasizes the actor’s presence against the architectural backdrop.

History & Provenance

The print was produced during the late 18th‑century boom in actor portraiture, a genre that catered to theater audiences. It entered the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s collection through acquisition in the early 20th century, where it remains displayed as an example of Hokusai’s contribution to popular visual culture.