A woodblock print by Yamamura Toyonari depicting Nakamura Ganjiro I as Oboshi Yuranosuke. This work exemplifies the artist's skill in capturing the essence of Kabuki theatre through restrained colours and delicate lines.

This woodblock print by Yamamura Toyonari (1886-1942) depicts the actor Nakamura Ganjiro I in the role of Oboshi Yuranosuke. Toyonari, also known as Koka, was a Japanese artist associated with the Ukiyo-e movement, specialising in portraits of Kabuki actors (yakusha-e). He studied with Tomioka Eisen and later focused on stage art, designing sets and costumes. He was particularly active during the Taisho and early Showa periods. The print shows Nakamura Ganjiro I in costume, his face expressing a serious, perhaps melancholic, mood. The composition is simple, focusing on the actor's head and shoulders against a muted grey-blue background. The lines are delicate, and the colours are restrained, typical of Toyonari's style. The print captures the essence of Kabuki theatre, a classical Japanese dance-drama known for its elaborate costumes, stylised movements, and dramatic narratives. The actor's attire, with its bold black and white stripes, adds to the visual impact of the portrait. The inscription to the right likely identifies the actor and role.