歌川国升画 五代目市川海老蔵 「熊谷次郎直実」|Kabuki Actor Ichikawa Ebizō V as Kumagai Jirō Naozane

Art Historical Context

In the vibrant world of 19th-century Japanese theater, Utagawaimasu captures the intensity of Kabuki star Ichikawa Ebizō V the role of Kumagai Jirō Naozane in this striking woodblock print from around 1849. Produced during the Edo period (1615–1868), the vertical ōban format—measuring about 15¼ × 10 inches—allowed for dramatic close-ups that brought actors' expressive faces and elaborate costumes to life, making these prints affordable souvenirs for theatergoers. Kunimasu, a member of the influential Utagawa school, specialized in yakusha-e, or actor portraits, blending meticulous line work with vibrant inks and colors applied through the woodblock process. This technique, involving carved cherry wood blocks for each color layer, enabled mass production and widespread popularity of ukiyo-e, the "pictures of the floating world" celebrating everyday pleasures like Kabuki. Kumagai, a warrior-turned-monk from the classic play *Ichinotani Futaba Gunki*, embodies themes of redemption and tragedy, as he unwittingly slays a young enemy prince—resonating deeply with audiences. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art Department, this print highlights Kabuki's cultural dominance, where superstar actors like Ebizō V were celebrities akin to modern idols, their images fueling a thriving print market.

About the Artist

Utagawa Kunimasu

Utagawa Kunimasu was a prominent ukiyo-e designer and teacher active in Osaka during the late Edo period, whose greatest artistic achievement was advancing the mature Osaka style of ōkubi-e (actor bust portraits) in the chūban format. A moneyed property owner who enjoyed considerable financial freedom, Kunimasu used his resources to promote ukiyo-e and its producers within Osaka, becoming an influ...