Scholarly Notes on This Ukiyo-e Print
This description is based on the original scholarly notes supervised by Yoshida Eiji, a leading authority on ukiyo e research and Sharaku studies, included with this print.
Each artwork is accompanied by a thin sheet of Japanese washi paper containing academic commentary in Japanese. For international collectors, we provide here a faithful English translation as part of the artwork’s documentation.
Artwork Description
This work depicts Iwai Kiyosaburō in the role of Osode, daughter of the innkeeper of Nikenya, from Katsuragawa Tsuki Shutsuden, performed at the Kawarazaki Theater in July 1794. The print belongs to Sharaku’s second period and exemplifies his refined experimentation with color and form.
The bold yellow ground contrasts strikingly with the striped kimono, accented by a black collar and hemline and a deep green obi. The deliberate placement of these colors produces vivid tension while maintaining compositional harmony, revealing Sharaku’s confident command of chromatic balance.
The gracefully curved posture characteristic of kabuki onnagata is rendered with precision. The subtle gesture of the left hand holding a long smoking pipe while preparing tobacco enhances the theatrical presence. Through controlled color and poised gesture, Sharaku captures both the elegance of performance and the structural clarity of design.
Edition
1968 woodblock reprint
Hand printed using traditional techniques
This is a mid 20th century reprint after Sharaku’s original 1794 design.
Condition
Good impression with vibrant colors.
Minor age related wear consistent with age.
Details
Signature: Tōshūsai Sharaku
Date: 1968
Japanese Woodblock Print
Print size: 30 x 15 cm
Backing sheet: 41.5 x 30 cm
All artworks are sold as shown in the photographs.
About the Sharaku Series
Tōshūsai Sharaku was active for only ten months between 1794 and 1795. During this brief period, he created actor portraits that broke dramatically from convention.
Rather than idealizing his subjects, Sharaku revealed the psychological intensity of kabuki performance through bold composition and uncompromising vision.
This series presents carefully selected mid 20th century woodblock reprints, printed by hand using traditional methods, offering a renewed encounter with Sharaku’s revolutionary work.
