The Actor Segawa Yujiro I in an Unidentified Role, Japan, c. 1775. Creator: Shunsho

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The Actor Segawa Yujiro I in an Unidentified Role, Japan, c. 1775. Creator: Shunsho

The Actor Segawa Yujiro I in an Unidentified Role, Japan, c. 1775

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Media ID 24373392

© Heritage Art/Heritage Images

Cross Dressing Drag Female Impersonator Gender Hosoban Kabuki Kabuki Actor Katsukawa Shunshō Miyagawa Shunsho Miyakawa Shunsho Onnagata Oyama Samisen Shamisen Shunsho Shunsho Katsukawa Shunsho Miyagawa Shunsho Miyakawa Colour Woodblock Print

EDITORS COMMENTS
This 18th-century woodblock print, titled "The Actor Segawa Yujiro I in an Unidentified Role" transports us back to the vibrant world of Edo-period Japan. Created by the renowned artist Shunsho, this artwork showcases the mesmerizing artistry and theatricality of kabuki theater. In this full-length portrait, we see Segawa Yujiro I, a male actor skillfully portraying a female character known as onnagata or oyama. Dressed in elaborate traditional attire with exquisite attention to detail, he embodies grace and elegance. The use of color adds depth and richness to the composition, highlighting every intricate pattern and texture. As our eyes wander across the image, we notice that Yujiro holds a samisen (shamisen), a three-stringed musical instrument commonly used in kabuki performances. This suggests that he may be depicting a scene from a dramatic play accompanied by music. Shunsho's mastery is evident in his ability to capture not only physical likeness but also convey emotions through subtle facial expressions and body language. The print serves as both documentation of historical theater traditions and an artistic expression showcasing the beauty of gender-bending performances during this era. Displayed at the Art Institute Chicago's Arts of Asia gallery, this heritage artwork invites viewers to immerse themselves in Japanese culture while appreciating its rich artistic heritage. It stands as a testament to Shunsho's talent for capturing moments frozen in time with incredible precision and evoc

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