The Actor Sanogawa Ichimatsu I as Kumenosuke in the play "Na no Hana Akebono Soga," performed at the Nakamura Theater in the second month, 1741 1741

Torii Kiyomasu II created this woodblock print in 1741, depicting the actor Sanogawa Ichimatsu I in the role of Kumenosuke. The image offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Japanese Kabuki theater during the Edo period. In this period, actors held a unique, and somewhat contested, place in society. While admired for their talent and artistry, they were also often viewed as social outsiders. The representation of Ichimatsu as Kumenosuke captures the actor’s transformative power, as he embodies a character within a play. Notice how the artist emphasizes not only the actor’s likeness, but also the theatrical persona he embodies. Kiyomasu uses bold lines and colors characteristic of the Torii school, known for its distinctive Kabuki actor prints. By focusing on specific roles, these prints served as both advertisements and cultural documents, reflecting the complex interplay between identity, performance, and social perception. The emotion portrayed in the piece connects with the audience, bridging the gap between the stage and the everyday viewer.