Nakamura Shikan III als Ushiwakamaru c. 1837

This is Gochôtei Sadamasu's woodblock print of Nakamura Shikan III as Ushiwakamaru. Kabuki theatre was a major cultural force in Japan, especially during the Edo period. The actors in Kabuki occupied a unique place in society, they were celebrities and trendsetters, yet were often seen as outsiders due to the strict social hierarchies of the time. Here, Nakamura Shikan III embodies Ushiwakamaru, a child folk hero known for his bravery and skill, whose story resonates deeply within Japanese culture. Consider the emotional intensity captured in Nakamura's expression, a mix of determination and vulnerability that is heightened by the rich color palette and intricate details of his costume. Kabuki, however, maintained traditional gender roles: women were prohibited from performing, and male actors played all roles. Ushiwakamaru is a male role played by a male. These representations served to both reflect and reinforce societal expectations around gender. Appreciate how this woodblock print not only immortalizes a specific performance, but also invites us to reflect on the complexities of identity and representation within the historical context of Japanese theatre.