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 Yakko Sodesuke, a character seeking revenge in the play Hanaayame Bunroku Soga, performed at the Miyakoza Theater in May of the sixth year of Kansei (1794). The role was portrayed by Ōtani Tokuji, who was known as one of the leading comic actors of his time. His comical character is conveyed through lowered eyebrows and round eyes, yet Sharaku captures both the humor of the performer and the seriousness of the role.
In this composition, Sharaku boldly shifts the figure toward the left side of the image, creating generous open space on the right. Even the signature is placed in the lower right corner, preserving visual space in front of the actor’s face. This spatial arrangement enhances the sense of movement and accentuates the liveliness of Tokuji’s expression.
Sharaku employs a compositional device he often favored, stacking three similar shapes to strengthen visual structure. The outline of the face and the two differently sized shapes formed by the right fist create rhythmic repetition. A comparable shape appears in the left hand gripping the sword guard, reinforcing balance and stability. These geometric relationships give firmness to the left side of the composition while maintaining dynamism.
The color scheme is predominantly subdued, with restrained tones in the kimono punctuated by small areas of deep yellow and vermillion. The vermillion of the sword’s scabbard functions as the key accent color. By using minimal lines and a limited palette to achieve strong visual impact, Sharaku demonstrates a hallmark of his style, making this work an exemplary study of his artistic method.
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.
Faint soiling and age spots consistent with age.
Details
Signature: Toshusai 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.
