The Actor Sanogawa Ichimatsu as a Young Man Holding a Folded Letter 1755 - 1775

This print of the actor Sanogawa Ichimatsu as a young man was made by Nishimura Shigenaga in the first half of the 18th century, likely using woodblock printing. Woodblock printing is an involved process. A design is first drawn on paper, then glued to a block of wood, usually cherry. The block is then carefully carved to leave the design in relief. Ink is applied, and paper laid on the block before being rubbed to transfer the image. The flat planes of color and line in this print are very typical of woodblock. Note how the pattern of the actor’s robe is precisely articulated, each diamond a testament to the skill of the carver and printer. The success of prints like these depended on highly skilled, anonymous artisans. Their craft was essential to the circulation of images in the Edo period. This print gives us insight into the popular culture of the time, and reminds us of the labor involved in its creation.