The Actors Ichikawa Monnosuke I and Dekijima Daisuke II
c. 1728
Medium
Hand-colored woodblock print; hosoban, urushi-e
Dimensions
30 × 15.6 cm (11 13/16 × 6 3/16 in.)
Classification
woodblock print
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
19237
Art Historical Context
In the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan (1603–1868), Torii Kiyonobu II *The Actors Ichikawa Monnosuke I andijima Daisuke II (c. 1728) captures the theatrical flair of kabuki stars. From the prestigious Torii school, renowned for yakusha-e (actor prints), Kiyonobu IIfully depicts these performers in dynamic poses, likely mid-scene, evoking the energy of Tokyo's bustling playhouses. Kabuki, with its elaborate costumes, makeup, and all-male casts, was a cultural phenomenon, and prints like this served as affordable souvenirs and promotional posters for fans. This hand-colored woodblock print is...
About the Artist
Torii Kiyonobu II · 1702–1752
Japanese, ca. 1702–1752