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 print depicts Sakanaya Gorobei, who appeared in the May performance of Katakiuchi Noriaibanashi at the Kiriza Theater in the sixth year of Kansei (1794). The character is a righteous fishmonger who assists Matsushita Mikinoshin’s daughters, Miyagino and Shinobu, in avenging their parents’ enemy, Shiga Daishichi.
The predominant color scheme is centered on a broad black dotera coat. Aside from this, only small accents of yellow and red appear at the sleeve cuffs and on the kiseru pipe. Most of the garment is rendered in subdued dark purple set against the black mica background of the kimono. These restrained tones, punctuated by small bright highlights, intensify the visual impact and demonstrate Sharaku’s distinctive sense of color balance.
The checkered pattern on the robe is known as “Kōraiya gōshi,” named after Kōshirō’s stage name Kōraiya. Kōshirō was particularly fond of this design. Matsumoto Kōshirō IV was a celebrated actor from the Tenmei to the Kansei eras, admired for his appearance, voice, presence, and eloquence. Though often reserved, he was known for sharp wit and understated humor. While he frequently portrayed white-faced roles on stage, Sharaku captures both his character and artistry with remarkable clarity.
This is evident in the soft lines describing the right hand tucked into the left sleeve and the hand holding the pipe from the left shoulder. A subtle touch of rouge around the eyes enhances their vividness. Kōshirō transitioned from training as an onnagata under Segawa Kikunojō to male roles under the fourth Danjūrō. He performed under the stage names Somegorō and Komazō before assuming the name Kōshirō. He passed away in the sixth month of the Kyōwa era at the age of sixty-six.
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 small thinned area 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.
