Kabuki players as the Eight Sennin (Triptych)
1810â20
Classification
figures
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of Mrs. Charles B. Alexander
Accession Number
1963-12-1-a
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Behold the vibrant triptych *Kabuki players as the Sennin* by Kininaga (d. ca. 1820), created around 1810–20. This captivating work from the Smithsonian American Art Museum collection portrays Kabuki actors embodying the legendary Eight Immortals (Sennin) from Daoist mythology—transcendent figures symbolizing longevity, wisdom, and supernatural feats. Acquired through a generous museum purchase funded by Mrs. Charles B Alexander's gift, it the fusion of theater and folklore in early 19th-century Japanese art. During Japan's Edo period, Kabuki theater was a cultural phenomenon, blending drama,...