The Second Bando Mitsugoro in the Role of Soga no Juro Sukenari

Art Historical Context

In the lively world of Edo-period Japan (1615–1868), this woodblock print by the artist Kinei captures the Second Bandō Mitsugorō, a celebrated kabuki actor, in the dramatic role of Soga no Jūrō Sukenari. Created around 1793–95, the work measures a compact 12 5/16 x 5 17/32 inches, ideal for fans or personal collections. Rendered in ink and color on paper, it exemplifies *ukiyo-e*—the "pictures of the floating world"—a genre that immortalized fleeting pleasures like theater and beauty. Soga no Jūrō is one half of the legendary Soga brothers, heroes of a popular revenge tale that became a kabuki staple, symbolizing loyalty and filial piety. These *yakusha-e* (actor prints) were like modern posters, fueling fan frenzy for stars like Mitsugorō, whose expressive pose and costume convey intense emotion. Kinei's precise carving and vibrant hues highlight the woodblock technique, where multiple blocks layered colors for depth and drama. Housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art Department, this print offers a window into Japan's theater-obsessed culture, where actors were celebrities and prints democratized art for everyday viewers. A testament to Edo ingenuity!