The Actor Segawa Kikunojo III as the Spirit of Joro-gumo (Harlot Spider) Disguised as... c. 1781. Creator: Shunsho

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The Actor Segawa Kikunojo III as the Spirit of Joro-gumo (Harlot Spider) Disguised as... c. 1781. Creator: Shunsho

The Actor Segawa Kikunojo III as the Spirit of Joro-gumo (Harlot Spider) Disguised as the Maiko Tsumagiku (?), in the Play Shitenno Tonoi no Kisewata (?), Performed at the Nakamura Theater (?) in the Eleventh Month, 1781 (?), Japan, c. 1781

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Media ID 36210405

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Character Disguise Disguised Drag Female Impersonator Hamamuraya Roko Hosoban Kabuki Kabuki Actor Katsukawa School Katsukawa Shunshō Katsumiyagawa Yusuke Kikunojo Iii Kikunojo Segawa Leaf Design Miyagawa Shunsho Miyakawa Shunsho Nakamura Theatre Olive Green Onnagata Oyama Princess Rosetta Segawa Kikunojo Iii Segawa Kikunojo Iv Shitenno Tonoi No Kisewata Shunsho Shunsho Katsukawa Shunsho Miyagawa Shunsho Miyakawa Spirit Color Woodblock Print Playhouse

EDITORS COMMENTS
This woodblock print, created by the renowned artist Shunsho, showcases Segawa Kikunojo III in the disguise of the Spirit of Joro-gumo (Harlot Spider), masquerading as the Maiko Tsumagiku in the Kabuki play "Shitenno Tonoi no Kisewata," performed at the Nakamura Theater in the Eleventh Month of 1781. The Edo Period (1603-1868) print is a stunning example of the Katsukawa School's artistic mastery. Kikunojo III, a prominent Kabuki actor of the time, is depicted in the print wearing a vibrant green kimono adorned with intricate leaf designs, adding to the allure of the Spirit of Joro-gumo. The Maiko Tsumagiku costume, traditionally worn by apprentice geisha, is a striking contrast to the spider's usual appearance. The artist, Shunsho, expertly captures the essence of the character's transformation, blurring the lines between masculinity and femininity. The print's intricate details, such as the delicate patterns on the kimono and the expressive facial features of Kikunojo III, demonstrate the artistic skill and creativity of the Katsukawa School. The use of bold colors, including black and green, adds depth and dimension to the print, making it a captivating piece of 18th-century Japanese art. This woodblock print is a testament to the rich cultural heritage of Japan and the artistry of its people during the Edo Period. It is a unique representation of the theatrical world of Kabuki, where actors could transform into different characters, blurring the lines between reality and illusion.

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