{"title":"Katsukawa Shunsho","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-v-with-a-rosary-beneath-a-willow-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V with a Rosary Beneath a Willow - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the expressive portrait of Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the celebrated Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of actors. He is credited with moving away from the generic, stylised faces of his predecessors to create more individualised likenesses. This shift allowed audiences to recognise specific performers by their facial features rather than relying solely on crests or costumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor in a dramatic pose, holding a string of prayer beads. The willow tree above provides a subtle, organic frame for the figure. Shunshō uses a restrained palette, allowing the stark contrast between the dark robe and the lighter background to define the actor's silhouette. The line work is precise, capturing the tension in the actor's posture and the specific expression of his face. This print reflects the aesthetic of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised realism within the conventions of the Edo period theatre world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatsukawa Shunshō was a teacher to many later artists, including Hokusai. His influence on the development of actor prints is significant, as he established a standard for portraiture that balanced theatrical artifice with human character. The print demonstrates the technical skill required for multi-block printing, with clear registration and clean lines. It serves as a record of the performance styles and fashions of the eighteenth-century Japanese stage, capturing a moment of quiet intensity often found in the dramatic narratives of Kabuki plays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357442150735,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357474165071,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357474197839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357474230607,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357474263375,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357474296143,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357474328911,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357474361679,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357474394447,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357474427215,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357474459983,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357474492751,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-V-with-a-Rosary-Beneath-a-Willow_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507081689.jpg?v=1785507348"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-5th-as-taira-no-masakado-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th as Taira no Masakado - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicting the actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th in a dramatic kabuki role from 1777.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō captures the actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th in the role of Taira no Masakado, disguised as the pilgrim Junjō. The performance took place at the Nakamura Theater in the eleventh month of 1777, during the production of Masakado Kammuri no Hatsuyuki. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the depiction of kabuki actors, and he is credited with moving away from the generic, doll-like faces of his predecessors toward more individualised portraiture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a narrow, vertical format typical of the era, allowing the artist to focus on the dramatic stance of the performer. The actor is shown in a moment of tension, gripping a staff with both hands. His facial expression, defined by sharp lines and a furrowed brow, conveys the intensity of the character. The costume features a repeating cloud-like pattern on the kimono, which contrasts with the stark, vertical lines of the bamboo stalks in the background. The colour palette is restrained, utilising muted tones that draw attention to the figure rather than the setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō’s approach to line work is precise and controlled. He uses varying line weights to define the folds of the fabric and the musculature of the hands, creating a sense of physical presence. The print serves as a record of a specific theatrical moment, preserving the costume, posture, and characterisation of a celebrated actor. By focusing on the actor’s likeness, Shunshō provided fans of the theatre with a tangible connection to the performances of the day. This work remains a clear example of the technical skill involved in eighteenth-century Japanese printmaking, where the collaboration between artist, carver, and printer resulted in highly refined images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/folio-from-the-upright-gojusan-tsuji-tokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eFolio From the Upright Gojusan Tsuji Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/scene-from-an-unidentified-drama-utagawa-toyokuni-i\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eScene from an Unidentified Drama - Utagawa Toyokuni I — Utagawa Toyokuni I\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357456306511,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357478195535,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357478228303,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357478261071,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357478293839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357478326607,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357478359375,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357478392143,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357478424911,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357478457679,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357478490447,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357478523215,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-5th-as-Taira-no-Masakado_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507230784.jpg?v=1785507431"},{"product_id":"actor-otani-hiroji-3rd-as-a-white-fox-disguised-as-ukishima-daihachi-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor ōtani Hiroji 3rd as a White Fox disguised as Ukishima Daihachi - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic 1770 woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing actor ōtani Hiroji III in a dramatic kabuki role as a fox spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor ōtani Hiroji III in the role of a white fox, who has assumed the guise of the character Ukishima Daihachi. The scene originates from the play Shinsadame Sōma no Mombi, performed at the Ichimura Theater in Edo during the seventh month of 1770. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the realistic portrayal of kabuki actors. Unlike the stylised, generic faces common in earlier prints, Shunshō sought to capture the specific features and expressions of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition shows the actor in a dramatic, contorted posture, suggesting the supernatural nature of the fox spirit. Arrows protrude from his clothing, indicating a violent encounter, while he holds a scroll in his mouth. The artist employs a narrow, vertical format, often referred to as hosoban, which was standard for actor prints of this period. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft greens, muted oranges, and earthy tones typical of the mid-Edo period printing techniques. The background is simplified, allowing the viewer to focus on the actor's physical exertion and the narrative tension of the scene. The print bears the signature of Shunshō, confirming his authorship of this specific theatrical study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's approach to actor portraiture influenced many subsequent artists, including his pupil Katsushika Hokusai. By focusing on the psychological state of the character rather than mere costume, he brought a new level of engagement to the genre. This print provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the boundaries between human actors and mythical creatures were frequently blurred on the kabuki stage. The work remains a clear example of the technical precision and narrative focus that defined the Katsukawa school.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357470298447,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357485175119,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357485207887,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357485240655,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357485273423,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357485306191,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357485338959,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357485371727,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357485404495,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357485437263,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357485470031,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357485502799,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-tani-Hiroji-3rd-as-a-White-Fox-disguised-as-Ukishima-Daihachi_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507198041.jpg?v=1785507512"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-noshio-1st-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Noshio 1st - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō portraying the kabuki actor Nakamura Noshio 1st in a graceful, understated pose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Noshio 1st in an onnagata role. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on realistic portrayals of kabuki performers. Unlike the stylised, generic faces seen in earlier prints, Shunshō introduced a level of individual characterisation that allowed audiences to recognise specific actors by their facial features and expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor in a graceful, standing pose, holding a round fan. The figure is dressed in a kimono adorned with a subtle ivy pattern, which provides a sense of seasonal movement. The background is sparse, featuring a circular window frame and a suggestion of a branch, which directs the viewer's attention to the actor's posture and the folds of the garment. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft earth tones, muted greens, and a striking accent of vermilion on the pillar and the actor's headpiece. This use of colour creates a balanced visual experience, typical of the mid-Edo period aesthetic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's line work is precise and controlled, defining the contours of the figure and the delicate patterns of the fabric without unnecessary clutter. The print reflects the technical mastery of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised clarity and narrative focus over excessive ornamentation. By capturing the actor in a moment of quiet poise, the work offers a glimpse into the theatrical culture of 18th-century Japan. The print is a fine example of how Ukiyo-e artists documented the lives and appearances of performers, bridging the gap between the stage and the domestic sphere of the urban population.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357606318415,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357616607567,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357616640335,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357616673103,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357616705871,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357616738639,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357616771407,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357616804175,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357616836943,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357616869711,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357616902479,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357616935247,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Noshio-1st_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507740593.jpg?v=1785508647"},{"product_id":"actor-in-the-play-hatsumombi-kuruwa-soga-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor in the play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing a kabuki actor in a role from the 1780 play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a kabuki actor in a role from the play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga, performed at the Nakamura Theater in the second month of 1780. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. He moved away from the stylised, generic facial features common in earlier ukiyo-e, opting instead for realistic portraits that captured the specific likeness of individual performers. This shift allowed audiences to recognise their favourite actors on stage, transforming these prints into popular collectibles for theatre enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is characteristic of the hosoban format, a narrow vertical sheet frequently used for single-figure actor portraits. The figure stands against a simple, neutral background, which directs the viewer's attention to the actor's posture and costume. The lines are precise and controlled, defining the folds of the kimono and the stern expression of the subject. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted earth tones, soft reds, and ochre, which were typical of the printing techniques available in the late 18th century. The actor wears a formal kimono with a sword tucked into the obi, suggesting a samurai or warrior role within the narrative of the Soga play. The print demonstrates the technical skill of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised clarity and characterisation over excessive ornamentation. By focusing on the actor's presence, Shunshō provides a direct link to the theatrical culture of 18th-century Edo, documenting both the fashion of the period and the specific performance styles of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357617557839,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357654946127,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357654978895,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357655011663,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357655044431,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357655077199,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357655109967,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357655142735,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357655175503,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357655208271,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357655241039,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357655273807,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-in-the-play-Hatsumombi-Kuruwa-Soga_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507579534.jpg?v=1785508723"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-nakazo-1st-as-kume-no-heinaizaemon-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Nakazō 1st as Kume no Heinaizaemon - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō portraying kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of Kume no Heinaizaemon, dating from 1783.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of Kume no Heinaizaemon, who appears in the play Kotobuke Banzei Soga. The performance took place at the Ichimura Theater in Edo during the fifth month of 1783. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of kabuki actors. He moved away from the stylised, generic faces common in earlier prints, opting instead for realistic likenesses that captured the specific features of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the actor is shown in the guise of a street fortune-teller named Kōsaka Jinnai. He wears a large, woven straw hat tilted back to reveal his face, which is marked by the distinctive makeup of the kabuki stage. His costume consists of a green kimono patterned with small, repeating motifs, layered beneath a grey outer garment featuring a geometric fretwork design. A sword is tucked into his sash, suggesting the hidden identity of the samurai Kume no Heinaizaemon beneath the humble disguise of the fortune-teller. He holds a closed folding fan in his left hand, a common accessory for actors of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print demonstrates the technical precision of the Katsukawa school. The lines are clean and deliberate, defining the folds of the fabric and the contours of the actor's expression. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted greens, greys, and earthy tones to create a balanced visual effect. This work provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the popularity of kabuki actors drove a significant market for portraiture. By documenting specific performances, artists like Shunshō preserved the ephemeral nature of the stage for a wider audience of print collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/folio-from-the-upright-gojusan-tsuji-tokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eFolio From the Upright Gojusan Tsuji Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/scene-from-an-unidentified-drama-utagawa-toyokuni-i\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eScene from an Unidentified Drama - Utagawa Toyokuni I — Utagawa Toyokuni I\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357627552079,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357657338191,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357657370959,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357657403727,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357657436495,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357657469263,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357657502031,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357657534799,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357657567567,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357657600335,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357657633103,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357657665871,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Nakaz-1st-as-Kume-no-Heinaizaemon_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507690927.jpg?v=1785508796"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-5th-as-moriya-no-daijin-disguised-as-rokujurokubu-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th as Moriya no Daijin disguised as Rokujūrokubu - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing Ichikawa Danjūrō V in a theatrical role as a wandering pilgrim from 1773.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the celebrated kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V in the role of Moriya no Daijin. The character is shown in disguise as a rokujūrokubu, a wandering Buddhist pilgrim who travels to sixty-six provinces to copy and distribute the Lotus Sutra. The performance took place at the Morita Theater in Edo during the seventh month of 1773, specifically for the play Miya-bashira Iwao no Butai.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō is recognised for his development of the yakusha-e, or actor print, genre. Unlike his predecessors who often depicted actors in a stylised, generic manner, Shunshō focused on capturing the specific facial features and individual expressions of the performers. This approach, known as nigao-e, allowed audiences to identify their favourite stars with precision. In this composition, the actor is captured in a dynamic pose, leaning slightly forward while gripping a staff. The heavy, dark lines of the robes contrast with the muted, earthy tones of the background and the pilgrim's attire. The large, rectangular box carried on his back is a characteristic accessory for the rokujūrokubu, used to house sutra scrolls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print demonstrates the technical mastery of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised clarity of form and characterisation over excessive ornamentation. The composition is balanced, with the verticality of the staff and the pilgrim's pack providing a sense of stability against the actor's posture. As a document of eighteenth-century Japanese theatre, this work provides a glimpse into the costume design and performance style of the period. The use of colour is restrained, relying on subtle washes to define the textures of the fabric and the weight of the wooden pack. This print remains a representative example of the shift toward realism in the depiction of kabuki actors during the mid-Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/folio-from-the-upright-gojusan-tsuji-tokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eFolio From the Upright Gojusan Tsuji Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/scene-from-an-unidentified-drama-utagawa-toyokuni-i\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eScene from an Unidentified Drama - Utagawa Toyokuni I — Utagawa Toyokuni I\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357836742991,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357871214927,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357871247695,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357871280463,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357871313231,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357871345999,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357871378767,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357871411535,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357871444303,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357871477071,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357871509839,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357871542607,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-5th-as-Moriya-no-Daijin-disguised-as-Rokuj-rokubu_Poster_CompositorV1_1785508690528.jpg?v=1785510654"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-denkuro-ii-in-a-striped-robe-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Denkūrō II in a Striped Robe - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the kabuki actor Nakamura Denkūrō II in a detailed striped kimono.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Denkūrō II. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of actors in their stage roles. Unlike the stylised, mask-like faces common in earlier ukiyo-e, Shunshō introduced a degree of realism to his actor portraits. He captured individual facial features and specific expressions, allowing audiences to recognise the performers behind the characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe actor is shown in a standing pose, wearing a kimono featuring a bold, vertical striped pattern. His hand rests upon the hilt of a sword, a common prop in samurai roles within the kabuki repertoire. The composition is clean and focused, typical of the hosoban format, which was narrow and tall, designed specifically for these single-figure actor studies. The artist uses a restrained palette, allowing the rhythmic lines of the striped fabric to provide visual interest without overwhelming the figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō founded the Katsukawa school, which influenced many later printmakers, including his pupil Hokusai. His work provides a window into the popular culture of the Edo period, where kabuki theatre was a central form of entertainment. The print reflects the technical precision of the period, with clear outlines and balanced colour application. By focusing on the actor as an individual, Shunshō helped shift the focus of ukiyo-e from generic types to specific personalities of the stage. This print is a fine example of the artist's ability to convey character through posture and facial expression, maintaining a balance between the theatricality of the performance and the graphic requirements of the woodblock medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357844377935,"sku":null,"price":28.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357873901903,"sku":null,"price":35.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Poster \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ -","offer_id":58357873934671,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357873967439,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357874000207,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357874032975,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357874065743,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357874098511,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357874131279,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357874164047,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Wood frame","offer_id":58357874196815,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357874229583,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Denk-r-II-in-a-Striped-Robe_Poster_CompositorV1_1785508741844.jpg?v=1785510769"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.solisprints.co.uk\/collections\/katsukawa-shunsho.oembed","provider":"Solis Prints","version":"1.0","type":"link"}