The Actor Ichikawa Raizo II, from "A Picture Book of Stage Fans (Ehon butai ogi)"

Art Historical Context

In the vibrant world of 18th-century Japan, Ippitsusai Buncho captured the theatrical flair of kabuki star Ichikawa Raizo II this striking color woodblock print from *A Picture Book of Stage (Ehon butai ogi)*, created around 1770. Buncho, a leading ukiyo-e artist the Edo period, specialized in yakusha-e—portraits of actors—that celebrated the "floating world" of entertainment. This page from an illustrated book (eh) showcases Raizo II in dynamic pose, likely mid-performance, embodying the exaggerated gestures and elaborate costumes that defined kabuki drama. The medium of color woodblock printing, known as nishiki-e or "brocade pictures," was revolutionary for its time, allowing intricate multi-color layers achieved through separate carved woodblocks for each hue. Measuring just 24.5 × 15.3 cm, this intimate format suited personal collections or fans (ogi) of the stage, blending artistry with accessibility. Buncho's precise lines and bold shading highlight the actor's expressive face and flowing robes, drawing viewers into the theater's energy. Housed in the Art Institute of Chicago's Arts of Asia department, this print reflects kabuki's cultural dominance, where actors like Raizo II were celebrities akin to modern idols. It offers a window into Japan's playful yet sophisticated print culture, where art and performance intertwined to delight everyday enthusiasts.