Scene From a Drama, Ichimura Kamezo as Hirano-ya Tokubei 1738 - 1758

Torii Kiyomasu I made this woodblock print titled, Scene From a Drama, Ichimura Kamezo as Hirano-ya Tokubei, sometime between the late 17th and early 18th century. The print captures a scene, likely from a Kabuki play, a popular form of Japanese theater that often featured men playing both male and female roles. In this print, we see Ichimura Kamezo, a male actor, embodying the role of Hirano-ya Tokubei. The portrayal of gender in Kabuki was complex, reflecting and shaping societal norms. The actors often took on female roles, challenging traditional representations of femininity. In this period, Kabuki theater was initially performed by women, it was later banned and replaced by all-male casts. The artist, Torii Kiyomasu, belonged to a lineage of printmakers specializing in theater subjects, capturing the emotional intensity of the stage. Their work not only entertained but also reflected and shaped the cultural values of their time. The print is a glimpse into the performative aspects of identity, gender, and class during the Edo period.