三代目大谷廣右衛門|The Third Otani Hiroemon as an Outlaw Standing Near a Willow Tree

Art Historical Context

Step into the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan with Katsukawa Shunshō's *The Third Otani Hiroemon an Outlaw Standing Near a Willow Tree* (1777). This exquisite woodblock print captures the famed kabuki actor Otani Hiroemon III in dramatic pose, embodying a rugged outlaw beside a gracefully drooping willow. Shunshō, a leading figure in the ukiyo-e ("pictures of the floating world") tradition, was renowned for his yakusha-e—portraits of theater stars that brought the stage's energy to everyday viewers. Created as a nishiki-e, or "brocade print," this work showcases the revolutionary full-color woodblock technique perfected in the 1760s. Multiple carved blocks layered vibrant inks—vermilion reds, Prussian blues, and subtle greens—to mimic luxurious textiles, making art accessible yet opulent. At just 11 15/16 x 5 5/8 inches, it was designed for intimate appreciation, perhaps tucked into a sleeve for fans to admire their idols. During the Edo period (1615–1868), kabuki theater pulsed with urban life in Tokyo (then Edo), and prints like this immortalized stars like Hiroemon, blending heroism and villainy. Shunshō's precise lines and expressive features highlight the actor's intensity, offering a window into Japan's theatrical golden age. A true gem from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's Asian Art collection!

About the Artist

Katsukawa Shunshō　勝川春章 (Japanese) · 1726 –1792

Japanese, 1726–1792