"Iwai Kiyotarō as Fujinami, Wife of Sagisaka Sanai, and Bandō Zenji as Kozasa, Wife of Washizuka Kandayū" by Sharaku (1974-1795)

All artworks are sold as seen on the picture.


This picture depicts the wives of Sagisaka Sanai, played by Bandō Hikosaburō, and Washizuka Kandayū, played by Segawa Hikosaburō, in the play 'Koi Nyōbō Somewake Tazuna,' performed at the Kawarazaki Theater in May of the sixth year of Kansei.
In other words, it portrays the wives of the good and bad characters. "Among the five half-length portraits in the first period works, this picture alone does not feature a face-to-face composition; instead, both figures face the same direction. Consequently, the composition appears somewhat flat. Additionally, the presence of numerous lines is unusual for Sharaku's style. Moreover, the use of similar color schemes for both characters' patterns and sashes raises questions. However, despite these points, Sharaku's sharp artistic talent is evident in the powerful characterization of Bandō Zenji's bent and robust personality.
The portrayal of the villain's wife is impressive. "In contrast, the serene face of Iwai Kiyotarō lacks distortion and clearly reflects the virtuous character of the good husband's wife, with the youthful touch conveyed through the Fuji pink attire.
Furthermore, the depiction of the hands of both characters reflects their respective good and evil natures. While their eye shapes differ, their gaze meets, likely directed towards Date no Yosaku and Menoto Shigenoi, respectively. This livens up the picture. "Although Bandō Zenji was not a top-ranking actor at the time, Sharaku chose to depict him beyond this painting. Perhaps Sharaku favored Zenji's mask. Iwai Kiyotarō was a disciple of Hanjūrō and adopted the name Kiyotarō from Karumo in the seventh year of Tenmei. "At the time of Kansei's sixth year, he held the rank of 'jōjō Hanshirokichi,' not being among the top-tier female performers. Sharaku did not exclusively depict high-ranking actors, which was a distinguishing feature of his work.