"Tomita Heitarō as Ichikawa Omezō" by Sharaku(1794-1795)

Signature: Toshusai Syaraku
Date:　1968
Condition: Good impression, vibrant colors,  
Japanese Woodblock Print,
Size:　Print (30 x 15 cm), Backing sheet (41.5 x 30 cm)

All artworks are sold as seen on the picture.

This image portrays Tomita Heitarō in the role of Ichikawa Omezō in the play "Nihonmatsu Michinoku Sodachi," performed at the Kawarazaki Theater in July of the sixth year of Kansei.
In this scene, Heitarō rushes to the site where his father, Sukedayū, has been murdered by Kawashima Jibugorō. Holding a lantern, Heitarō confronts Jibugorō with his hand on his sword, depicting a tense and unstable atmosphere of the night. This portrayal complements the depiction of Jibugorō by Otani Oniji II, showcasing Sharaku's keen observation skills in capturing the nuances of the characters' expressions and movements.
At first glance, the image may seem ordinary, but it reveals Sharaku's extraordinary talent for meticulous observation. The subtle color combination of the light purple kimono and dark green hakama against the background of the greyish mouse-colored fabric enhances the effect, especially when viewed alongside the sixteenth scene.
The artist's signature reads "Tōshūsai Sharaku," distinguishing it from other works attributed simply to "Sharaku-ga" and indicating a significant level of artistic accomplishment, even within the genre of narrow-format prints.