Who painted Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon?

Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon was painted by Utagawa Kunihiro in 1829.

Where can I see Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon?

Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon?

Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon is associated with Romanticism.

Artwork

Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon

Utagawa Kunihiro , 1829

Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon is a print by the Romanticist artist Utagawa Kunihiro. It dates from 1829 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.

About this work

Overview

Utagawa Kunihiro’s woodblock print, titled Ichikawa Ebijuro II as Horiguchi Manzaemon, dates from 1829 and is part of the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. The image presents a solitary figure in a vivid blue kimono, set against a simple landscape of grass, trees, and shrubs.

Subject & Meaning

The central figure is the actor Ichikawa Ebijuro II portrayed in the role of Horiguchi Manzaemon, a samurai character. He holds two sheathed swords, his posture suggesting readiness for action, while his gaze is directed downward, conveying a moment of contemplation before movement.

Technique & Style

Kunihiro employs bold, contrasting colors—particularly the blue of the kimono and the red‑gold obi—to heighten visual impact. The composition uses clear outlines and flat areas of colour typical of ukiyo‑e prints, while subtle shading creates a modest sense of depth and three‑dimensionality.

History & Provenance

Created in the late Edo period, the print reflects the popular practice of depicting kabuki actors in their theatrical roles. It entered the Cleveland Museum of Art’s holdings through acquisition in the twentieth century, where it remains on view as part of the museum’s Japanese art collection.