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 artwork portrays Nakai Otsuyu, a character from the play Yomononishiki Kokyō no Tabiji, performed at the Kiriza Theater in August of the sixth year of Kansei (1794). The play is a heartrending episode derived from Shinmachi Idutsuya Chūbei’s Secret Scroll, known as a moving piece within the puppet play tradition. Otsuyu appears in the scene in which Chūbei’s secret is sealed.
Among the ōban-sized works of Sharaku’s second series, this painting stands out as one of the finest examples. The composition is constructed through the arrangement of multiple triangular forms, producing a distinctive sense of three-dimensional beauty. The lines are rendered with remarkable naturalness, creating depth and volume that reveal Sharaku’s artistic richness and structural awareness.
The color scheme harmoniously combines a crimson kimono with a black collar and belt, accented by a yellow pattern set against a black ground. The light blue collar of the undergarment and the pale blue apron further enhance the balance of tones. These carefully coordinated colors create both weight and refinement, contributing to the overall elegance of the image.
Matsumoto Yonesaburō was born as the child of Yoshizawa Ayame IV and later joined the troupe of Matsumoto Kōshirō IV, adopting the name Matsumoto Yonesaburō. He was highly popular as a young onnagata and was regarded as one of a celebrated trio alongside Nakayama Tomisaburō and Iwai Kumesaburō. He passed away in March of the second year of Bunka. Sharaku had previously depicted Yonesaburō in the first series of large half-length portraits as well.
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: 30 x 15 cm
Backing sheet: 42 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.
