"Tanabe Bunzō's Wife, Oshizu, by Segawa Kikunojō III" by Sharaku(1794-1795)

Tanabe Bunzō assists the Ishii brothers in avenging a vendetta, enduring financial hardship as a result. His wife, Oshizu, also suffers alongside him, depicted wearing a headband due to illness. Among Sharaku's portrayals of female characters, this piece is considered one of the finest, capturing the loneliness of the role while showcasing Segawa Kikunojō III's talents as a female impersonator. The rounded face and graceful demeanor exude a profound impression.
Particularly remarkable in this artwork is the stunning use of colors. Sharaku employs a combination of red and green, colors often favored by the artist, for Oshizu's undergarments. Though subtle, this color scheme enhances the overall composition while hinting at the flamboyance of the character. Truly, this piece demonstrates Sharaku's unique and rich artistic sensibility.
Segawa Kikunojō III was a renowned female impersonator during the Tenmei and Kansei eras, even rising to the rank of leading female impersonator. Originally born as the second son of Ichikawa Shichijūrō, a choreographer in Osaka, he was initially named Ichiyama Tomizaburō before becoming the adopted son of Segawa Kikunojō II. He succeeded as the third generation in November of the third year of An'ei, gradually gaining fame and becoming the foremost female impersonator in Edo.
He was also known as Hamamuraya Daimyōjin. He adopted the haiku name Rokō in the first year of Kyōwa and later changed his stage name to Sen'nyo in the fourth year of Bunsei.
He passed away at the age of sixty in December of the seventh year of Bunsei.