Nakamura Utaemon III as Taira no Kiyomori 1812

Utagawa Toyokuni I created this woodblock print depicting the actor Nakamura Utaemon III as Taira no Kiyomori. In this piece, we see the Kabuki actor in character, embodying the 12th-century military leader. Kabuki theater, popular during the Edo period, was a space where social norms were often questioned. Actors, like Utaemon, became cultural icons, and prints like this one immortalized their performances. The representation of Kiyomori, a historical figure, allowed for commentary on contemporary power structures. Notice the stylized makeup and elaborate costume, which signify the character’s role and emotional state. The artist uses bold lines and colors to convey the drama and intensity of the performance. This print offers a glimpse into the complex interplay between theater, identity, and social commentary in Edo-period Japan. It invites us to reflect on how performance can both reflect and challenge societal norms.