The Actors Ichimura Uzaemon VIII, Ichimura Kamezo I as Wankyu, and Nakamura Kiyosaburo I as Matsuyama in the play "Mitsugimono Irifune Nagoya," performed at the Ichimura Theater in the seventh month, 1750
Medium
Color woodblock print; hosoban, benizuri-e
Dimensions
30.1 × 14.6 cm (11 7/8 × 5 3/4 in.)
Classification
woodblock print
Department
Arts of Asia
Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
Accession Number
32589
Art Historical Context
This vibrant woodblock print by Torii Kiyonobu II captures three celebrateduki actors—Ichimurazaemon VIII, Ichimuraamezo I, and Nakamura Kiyaburo I—in roles from the 1750 play “Mitsugimono Irifune Nagoya” at Edo’s Ichimura Theater. Created in the seventh month of year, the work preserves a fleeting performance moment, reflecting the deep connection between ukiyo-e artists and the lively world of kabuki theater during Japan’s Edo period. Kiyonobu II belonged to the influential Torii school, renowned for its actor portraits that helped popularize kabuki stars among the public. The print’s hosob...
About the Artist
Torii Kiyonobu II · 1702–1752
Japanese, ca. 1702–1752