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 Onoe Matsusuke in the role of Matsushita Mikinoshin from Katakiuchi Noriai Banashi, performed at the Kiriza Theater in May 1794. Though understated in palette and composition, the portrait stands among Sharaku’s most compelling works.
Mikinoshin, a wandering ronin living in poverty and destined for tragic death, is rendered with stark realism. The deep green kimono dominates the composition, heightening the austerity of the scene. Sharaku conveys exhaustion through the gaunt face, elongated makeup, sparse facial hair, and distant gaze. Even the hand holding the fan appears weakened, reinforcing the character’s destitution.
Rather than embellishing the figure, Sharaku isolates the psychological presence of the actor. The restrained color scheme and uncompromising physiognomy embody Sharaku’s distinctive approach to portraiture, revealing character through severity and dramatic truth.
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.
Small thinned area consistent with age.
Details
Signature: Tōshūsai Sharaku
Date: 1968
Japanese Woodblock Print
Print size: 31 x 21 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.
