The Actor, Matsumoto Koshiro I 1674–1730 in an Unidentified Role 1743 - 1812

Katsukawa Shunko's woodblock print captures the actor Matsumoto Koshiro in an unknown role, likely created in the late 18th century. The vertical composition emphasizes the actor's towering presence, with the figure offset to the left, balanced by stylized bamboo shoots on the right. The actor’s patterned kimono, cinched at the waist, displays a complex interplay of geometric and organic forms, with its monochrome palette accented by sparing use of warmer tones in the basket and obi. His contemplative pose, hand to chin, draws the viewer's eye to his face, a study in controlled emotion. Shunko manipulates line and form to convey not just the actor's likeness, but also the essence of his stage persona. This print destabilizes the traditional portrait by focusing on the performative identity. Shunko uses formal elements to explore how representation shapes perception, reminding us that identity is as much a constructed image as it is an inherent essence.