{"title":"Katsukawa Shunsho","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-v-with-a-rosary-beneath-a-willow-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V with a Rosary Beneath a Willow - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic Ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the expressive portrait of Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the celebrated Kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of actors. He is credited with moving away from the generic, stylised faces of his predecessors to create more individualised likenesses. This shift allowed audiences to recognise specific performers by their facial features rather than relying solely on crests or costumes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor in a dramatic pose, holding a string of prayer beads. The willow tree above provides a subtle, organic frame for the figure. Shunshō uses a restrained palette, allowing the stark contrast between the dark robe and the lighter background to define the actor's silhouette. The line work is precise, capturing the tension in the actor's posture and the specific expression of his face. This print reflects the aesthetic of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised realism within the conventions of the Edo period theatre world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatsukawa Shunshō was a teacher to many later artists, including Hokusai. His influence on the development of actor prints is significant, as he established a standard for portraiture that balanced theatrical artifice with human character. The print demonstrates the technical skill required for multi-block printing, with clear registration and clean lines. It serves as a record of the performance styles and fashions of the eighteenth-century Japanese stage, capturing a moment of quiet intensity often found in the dramatic narratives of Kabuki plays.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357474230607,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357474296143,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357474394447,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357474427215,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357474492751,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-V-with-a-Rosary-Beneath-a-Willow_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507081689.jpg?v=1785507348"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-5th-as-taira-no-masakado-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th as Taira no Masakado - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicting the actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th in a dramatic kabuki role from 1777.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō captures the actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th in the role of Taira no Masakado, disguised as the pilgrim Junjō. The performance took place at the Nakamura Theater in the eleventh month of 1777, during the production of Masakado Kammuri no Hatsuyuki. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the depiction of kabuki actors, and he is credited with moving away from the generic, doll-like faces of his predecessors toward more individualised portraiture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition employs a narrow, vertical format typical of the era, allowing the artist to focus on the dramatic stance of the performer. The actor is shown in a moment of tension, gripping a staff with both hands. His facial expression, defined by sharp lines and a furrowed brow, conveys the intensity of the character. The costume features a repeating cloud-like pattern on the kimono, which contrasts with the stark, vertical lines of the bamboo stalks in the background. The colour palette is restrained, utilising muted tones that draw attention to the figure rather than the setting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō’s approach to line work is precise and controlled. He uses varying line weights to define the folds of the fabric and the musculature of the hands, creating a sense of physical presence. The print serves as a record of a specific theatrical moment, preserving the costume, posture, and characterisation of a celebrated actor. By focusing on the actor’s likeness, Shunshō provided fans of the theatre with a tangible connection to the performances of the day. This work remains a clear example of the technical skill involved in eighteenth-century Japanese printmaking, where the collaboration between artist, carver, and printer resulted in highly refined images.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/folio-from-the-upright-gojusan-tsuji-tokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eFolio From the Upright Gojusan Tsuji Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/scene-from-an-unidentified-drama-utagawa-toyokuni-i\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eScene from an Unidentified Drama - Utagawa Toyokuni I — Utagawa Toyokuni I\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357478261071,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357478326607,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357478424911,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357478457679,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357478523215,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-5th-as-Taira-no-Masakado_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507230784.jpg?v=1785507431"},{"product_id":"actor-otani-hiroji-3rd-as-a-white-fox-disguised-as-ukishima-daihachi-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor ōtani Hiroji 3rd as a White Fox disguised as Ukishima Daihachi - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic 1770 woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing actor ōtani Hiroji III in a dramatic kabuki role as a fox spirit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor ōtani Hiroji III in the role of a white fox, who has assumed the guise of the character Ukishima Daihachi. The scene originates from the play Shinsadame Sōma no Mombi, performed at the Ichimura Theater in Edo during the seventh month of 1770. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the realistic portrayal of kabuki actors. Unlike the stylised, generic faces common in earlier prints, Shunshō sought to capture the specific features and expressions of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition shows the actor in a dramatic, contorted posture, suggesting the supernatural nature of the fox spirit. Arrows protrude from his clothing, indicating a violent encounter, while he holds a scroll in his mouth. The artist employs a narrow, vertical format, often referred to as hosoban, which was standard for actor prints of this period. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft greens, muted oranges, and earthy tones typical of the mid-Edo period printing techniques. The background is simplified, allowing the viewer to focus on the actor's physical exertion and the narrative tension of the scene. The print bears the signature of Shunshō, confirming his authorship of this specific theatrical study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's approach to actor portraiture influenced many subsequent artists, including his pupil Katsushika Hokusai. By focusing on the psychological state of the character rather than mere costume, he brought a new level of engagement to the genre. This print provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the boundaries between human actors and mythical creatures were frequently blurred on the kabuki stage. The work remains a clear example of the technical precision and narrative focus that defined the Katsukawa school.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357485240655,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357485306191,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357485404495,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357485437263,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357485502799,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-tani-Hiroji-3rd-as-a-White-Fox-disguised-as-Ukishima-Daihachi_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507198041.jpg?v=1785507512"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-noshio-1st-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Noshio 1st - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō portraying the kabuki actor Nakamura Noshio 1st in a graceful, understated pose.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Noshio 1st in an onnagata role. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on realistic portrayals of kabuki performers. Unlike the stylised, generic faces seen in earlier prints, Shunshō introduced a level of individual characterisation that allowed audiences to recognise specific actors by their facial features and expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition features the actor in a graceful, standing pose, holding a round fan. The figure is dressed in a kimono adorned with a subtle ivy pattern, which provides a sense of seasonal movement. The background is sparse, featuring a circular window frame and a suggestion of a branch, which directs the viewer's attention to the actor's posture and the folds of the garment. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft earth tones, muted greens, and a striking accent of vermilion on the pillar and the actor's headpiece. This use of colour creates a balanced visual experience, typical of the mid-Edo period aesthetic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's line work is precise and controlled, defining the contours of the figure and the delicate patterns of the fabric without unnecessary clutter. The print reflects the technical mastery of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised clarity and narrative focus over excessive ornamentation. By capturing the actor in a moment of quiet poise, the work offers a glimpse into the theatrical culture of 18th-century Japan. The print is a fine example of how Ukiyo-e artists documented the lives and appearances of performers, bridging the gap between the stage and the domestic sphere of the urban population.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357616673103,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357616738639,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357616836943,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357616869711,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357616935247,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Noshio-1st_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507740593.jpg?v=1785508647"},{"product_id":"actor-in-the-play-hatsumombi-kuruwa-soga-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor in the play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing a kabuki actor in a role from the 1780 play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a kabuki actor in a role from the play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga, performed at the Nakamura Theater in the second month of 1780. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. He moved away from the stylised, generic facial features common in earlier ukiyo-e, opting instead for realistic portraits that captured the specific likeness of individual performers. This shift allowed audiences to recognise their favourite actors on stage, transforming these prints into popular collectibles for theatre enthusiasts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is characteristic of the hosoban format, a narrow vertical sheet frequently used for single-figure actor portraits. The figure stands against a simple, neutral background, which directs the viewer's attention to the actor's posture and costume. The lines are precise and controlled, defining the folds of the kimono and the stern expression of the subject. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted earth tones, soft reds, and ochre, which were typical of the printing techniques available in the late 18th century. The actor wears a formal kimono with a sword tucked into the obi, suggesting a samurai or warrior role within the narrative of the Soga play. The print demonstrates the technical skill of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised clarity and characterisation over excessive ornamentation. By focusing on the actor's presence, Shunshō provides a direct link to the theatrical culture of 18th-century Edo, documenting both the fashion of the period and the specific performance styles of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357655011663,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357655077199,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357655175503,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357655208271,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357655273807,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-in-the-play-Hatsumombi-Kuruwa-Soga_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507579534.jpg?v=1785508723"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-nakazo-1st-as-kume-no-heinaizaemon-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Nakazō 1st as Kume no Heinaizaemon - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō portraying kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of Kume no Heinaizaemon, dating from 1783.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of Kume no Heinaizaemon, who appears in the play Kotobuke Banzei Soga. The performance took place at the Ichimura Theater in Edo during the fifth month of 1783. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of kabuki actors. He moved away from the stylised, generic faces common in earlier prints, opting instead for realistic likenesses that captured the specific features of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the actor is shown in the guise of a street fortune-teller named Kōsaka Jinnai. He wears a large, woven straw hat tilted back to reveal his face, which is marked by the distinctive makeup of the kabuki stage. His costume consists of a green kimono patterned with small, repeating motifs, layered beneath a grey outer garment featuring a geometric fretwork design. A sword is tucked into his sash, suggesting the hidden identity of the samurai Kume no Heinaizaemon beneath the humble disguise of the fortune-teller. He holds a closed folding fan in his left hand, a common accessory for actors of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print demonstrates the technical precision of the Katsukawa school. The lines are clean and deliberate, defining the folds of the fabric and the contours of the actor's expression. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted greens, greys, and earthy tones to create a balanced visual effect. This work provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the popularity of kabuki actors drove a significant market for portraiture. By documenting specific performances, artists like Shunshō preserved the ephemeral nature of the stage for a wider audience of print collectors.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/folio-from-the-upright-gojusan-tsuji-tokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eFolio From the Upright Gojusan Tsuji Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/scene-from-an-unidentified-drama-utagawa-toyokuni-i\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eScene from an Unidentified Drama - Utagawa Toyokuni I — Utagawa Toyokuni I\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357657403727,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357657469263,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357657567567,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357657600335,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357657665871,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Nakaz-1st-as-Kume-no-Heinaizaemon_Poster_CompositorV1_1785507690927.jpg?v=1785508796"},{"product_id":"actor-ichikawa-danjuro-5th-as-moriya-no-daijin-disguised-as-rokujurokubu-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichikawa Danjūrō 5th as Moriya no Daijin disguised as Rokujūrokubu - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing Ichikawa Danjūrō V in a theatrical role as a wandering pilgrim from 1773.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the celebrated kabuki actor Ichikawa Danjūrō V in the role of Moriya no Daijin. The character is shown in disguise as a rokujūrokubu, a wandering Buddhist pilgrim who travels to sixty-six provinces to copy and distribute the Lotus Sutra. The performance took place at the Morita Theater in Edo during the seventh month of 1773, specifically for the play Miya-bashira Iwao no Butai.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō is recognised for his development of the yakusha-e, or actor print, genre. Unlike his predecessors who often depicted actors in a stylised, generic manner, Shunshō focused on capturing the specific facial features and individual expressions of the performers. This approach, known as nigao-e, allowed audiences to identify their favourite stars with precision. In this composition, the actor is captured in a dynamic pose, leaning slightly forward while gripping a staff. The heavy, dark lines of the robes contrast with the muted, earthy tones of the background and the pilgrim's attire. The large, rectangular box carried on his back is a characteristic accessory for the rokujūrokubu, used to house sutra scrolls.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print demonstrates the technical mastery of the Katsukawa school, which prioritised clarity of form and characterisation over excessive ornamentation. The composition is balanced, with the verticality of the staff and the pilgrim's pack providing a sense of stability against the actor's posture. As a document of eighteenth-century Japanese theatre, this work provides a glimpse into the costume design and performance style of the period. The use of colour is restrained, relying on subtle washes to define the textures of the fabric and the weight of the wooden pack. This print remains a representative example of the shift toward realism in the depiction of kabuki actors during the mid-Edo period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/folio-from-the-upright-gojusan-tsuji-tokaido-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eFolio From the Upright Gojusan Tsuji Tokaido - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/scene-from-an-unidentified-drama-utagawa-toyokuni-i\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eScene from an Unidentified Drama - Utagawa Toyokuni I — Utagawa Toyokuni I\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357871280463,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357871345999,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357871444303,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357871477071,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357871542607,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichikawa-Danj-r-5th-as-Moriya-no-Daijin-disguised-as-Rokuj-rokubu_Poster_CompositorV1_1785508690528.jpg?v=1785510654"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-denkuro-ii-in-a-striped-robe-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Denkūrō II in a Striped Robe - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the kabuki actor Nakamura Denkūrō II in a detailed striped kimono.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Denkūrō II. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of actors in their stage roles. Unlike the stylised, mask-like faces common in earlier ukiyo-e, Shunshō introduced a degree of realism to his actor portraits. He captured individual facial features and specific expressions, allowing audiences to recognise the performers behind the characters.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe actor is shown in a standing pose, wearing a kimono featuring a bold, vertical striped pattern. His hand rests upon the hilt of a sword, a common prop in samurai roles within the kabuki repertoire. The composition is clean and focused, typical of the hosoban format, which was narrow and tall, designed specifically for these single-figure actor studies. The artist uses a restrained palette, allowing the rhythmic lines of the striped fabric to provide visual interest without overwhelming the figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō founded the Katsukawa school, which influenced many later printmakers, including his pupil Hokusai. His work provides a window into the popular culture of the Edo period, where kabuki theatre was a central form of entertainment. The print reflects the technical precision of the period, with clear outlines and balanced colour application. By focusing on the actor as an individual, Shunshō helped shift the focus of ukiyo-e from generic types to specific personalities of the stage. This print is a fine example of the artist's ability to convey character through posture and facial expression, maintaining a balance between the theatricality of the performance and the graphic requirements of the woodblock medium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/meguro-drum-bridge-and-sunset-hill-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eMeguro Drum Bridge and Sunset Hill - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/women-near-a-river-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eWomen Near a River - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357873967439,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357874032975,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357874131279,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58357874164047,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58357874229583,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Denk-r-II-in-a-Striped-Robe_Poster_CompositorV1_1785508741844.jpg?v=1785510769"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-nakazo-i-as-teraoka-heiemon-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Nakazō I as Teraoka Heiemon - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the dramatic intensity of kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of Teraoka Heiemon. The subject is drawn from the popular play Kanadehon Chūshingura, which recounts the historical vendetta of the forty-seven rōnin. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of kabuki actors. He moved away from the stylised, generic faces common in earlier prints, opting instead for realistic portrayals that captured the specific features and expressions of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the actor is captured in a dynamic pose, his body angled to suggest movement and tension. He holds a sword, his expression set in a grimace that conveys the dramatic intensity of the scene. The background is minimal, featuring a simple bamboo motif that frames the figure without distracting from the actor's performance. The use of colour is restrained, relying on a palette of muted greens, earthy reds, and soft neutrals. This choice of colour allows the viewer to focus on the lines of the actor's costume and the expressive quality of his face.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's work was highly regarded for its ability to convey the personality of the actor on stage. By focusing on the physical presence of Nakamura Nakazō I, the artist provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of Edo-period Japan. The print demonstrates the technical precision of the woodblock medium, with clean lines and balanced composition. It is a representative example of the Katsukawa school, which influenced many later artists in the ukiyo-e tradition. The print serves as a record of a specific performance, preserving the appearance and posture of a celebrated actor from the eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58565249958223,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58565250023759,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58565250122063,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58565250154831,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58565250220367,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Nakaz-I-as-Teraoka-Heiemon_Poster_CompositorV1_1787680784222.jpg?v=1787681358"},{"product_id":"actor-iwai-hanshiro-iv-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Iwai Hanshirō IV - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, depicting the kabuki actor Iwai Hanshirō IV in a refined, realistic portrait style.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKatsukawa Shunshō was a central figure in the development of the yakusha-e, or actor print, during the mid-Edo period. This woodblock print depicts the kabuki actor Iwai Hanshirō IV, a performer celebrated for his onnagata roles, which involved the portrayal of female characters. Shunshō moved away from the stylised, mask-like faces common in earlier ukiyo-e works, opting instead for a more realistic approach that captured the individual features of the actor. This shift allowed audiences to recognise their favourite performers with greater ease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is clean and focused. The actor stands in a graceful pose, holding a closed parasol, which serves as a prop to define the character's movement and status. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft ochre, muted green, and black ink to create a sense of balance. The lines are precise and controlled, reflecting the technical mastery required for the woodblock printing process. The kimono patterns are rendered with economy, providing visual interest without overwhelming the figure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō founded the Katsukawa school, which influenced many later artists, including his student Katsushika Hokusai. His work provides a window into the theatre culture of 18th-century Edo, where the lives of actors were closely followed by the urban population. By focusing on the specific likeness of the performer, Shunshō elevated the actor print from a mere promotional tool to a form of portraiture. This print captures the quiet dignity of the subject, presented against a simple background that directs all attention to the actor's posture and expression. It is a representative example of the Katsukawa style, which prioritised clarity and characterisation over excessive ornamentation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58565888606543,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58565888672079,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58565888770383,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58565888803151,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58565888868687,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Iwai-Hanshir-IV_Poster_CompositorV1_1787681153870.jpg?v=1787684167"},{"product_id":"picture-of-the-great-official-sumo-meet-in-edo-match-between-fudenoumi-and-miyagino-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Picture of the Great Official Sumo Meet in Edo: Match Between Fudenoumi and Miyagino - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA detailed woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō capturing a sumo match between Fudenoumi and Miyagino within a crowded Edo-period arena.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a sumo match held in Edo. The composition centres on the dohyo, the raised ring, which is sheltered by a traditional roof structure supported by four pillars. Two wrestlers, identified as Fudenoumi and Miyagino, are locked in a physical struggle at the centre of the ring. Their muscular forms are rendered with the characteristic anatomical focus that defined Shunshō's approach to figure drawing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surrounding space is filled with a dense crowd of spectators, arranged in tiered wooden stands that frame the scene. The artist employs a high vantage point to capture the scale of the event, allowing the viewer to observe both the action in the ring and the reactions of the audience. The use of line work defines the architectural elements of the arena and the individual figures within the crowd, creating a sense of order amidst the busy scene.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō was a master of the Katsukawa school, known for his realistic depictions of kabuki actors and sumo wrestlers. Unlike the more stylised portraits of his contemporaries, his work often prioritised individual features and physical presence. This print provides a record of the social atmosphere of an eighteenth-century sumo tournament. The colour palette remains muted, typical of the period's printing techniques, with soft tones applied to the wooden structures and the clothing of the spectators. The print serves as a visual document of Edo-period popular culture, capturing the energy of a public sporting event through the lens of traditional Japanese printmaking.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58566311117135,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58566311182671,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58566311280975,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58566311313743,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58566311379279,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Picture-of-the-Great-Official-Sumo-Meet-in-Edo_-Match-Between-Fudenoumi-and-Miyagino_Poster_CompositorV1_1787685343073.jpg?v=1787686715"},{"product_id":"pentaptych-kabuki-actors-from-the-play-hatsumombi-kuruwa-soga-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Pentaptych: Kabuki Actors from the play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare pentaptych woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing Kabuki actors from the 1780 production of Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis pentaptych by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a group of Kabuki actors as they appeared in the play Hatsumombi Kuruwa Soga, performed at the Nakamura Theater in the second month of 1780. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of actors. He moved away from the stylised, generic faces common in earlier prints, opting instead for realistic likenesses that captured the specific features and expressions of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition spans five separate sheets, creating a wide, cinematic view of the actors standing in a line. Each figure wears traditional stage attire, including layered kimono and swords, rendered with clean, precise lines. The colour palette is restrained, relying on muted earth tones, soft greys, and subtle pinks to define the garments and the background. This choice of colour allows the viewer to focus on the posture and facial expressions of the actors, which are the primary subjects of the work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō’s approach to the human form is grounded in observation. The figures possess a weight and presence that distinguish them from the more ethereal depictions found in other schools of the period. The background is minimal, suggesting a stage setting without distracting from the actors themselves. This print provides a clear view into the theatrical culture of Edo-period Japan, documenting both the fashion of the time and the specific performances that drew large audiences to the Nakamura Theater. As a multi-sheet work, it demonstrates the technical skill required to maintain consistency across a large-scale woodblock production. The work remains a primary source for understanding the aesthetic priorities of the Katsukawa school and the development of actor portraiture in the late eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58567622132047,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58567622197583,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58567622295887,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58567622328655,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58567622394191,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Pentaptych_-Kabuki-Actors-from-the-play-Hatsumombi-Kuruwa-Soga_Poster_CompositorV1_1787699510946.jpg?v=1787700337"},{"product_id":"actor-iwai-hanshiro-iv-as-a-woman-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Iwai Hanshirō IV as a Woman - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA refined woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicting the kabuki actor Iwai Hanshirō IV, showcasing the artist's signature realistic approach to actor portraiture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Iwai Hanshirō IV in the role of a woman. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. He moved away from the stylised, generic portrayals of his predecessors, choosing instead to capture the specific facial features and individual expressions of the performers. This shift toward realism, known as nigao-e, allowed audiences to recognise their favourite actors instantly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is balanced and elegant. The figure stands in a graceful posture, with the kimono folds rendered through clean, precise lines. The soft pink hue of the garment provides a gentle contrast against the neutral background, while the fan held in the actor's hand adds a sense of movement and theatricality. The subtle floral patterns on the hem of the kimono demonstrate the technical skill involved in the carving and printing process of the era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō founded the Katsukawa school, which influenced many later artists, including his pupil Hokusai. His work captures the ephemeral nature of the floating world, documenting the fashion, theatre, and popular culture of 18th-century Japan. The print maintains a sense of poise, focusing on the actor's persona rather than the artifice of the stage. By stripping away excessive background detail, the artist directs the viewer's attention to the posture and the costume, which are essential elements of the kabuki performance. This piece offers a clear example of the aesthetic values prevalent in the Ukiyo-e tradition, where the focus remains on the beauty of the line and the harmony of the composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58567693140303,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58567693205839,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58567693304143,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58567693336911,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58567693402447,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Iwai-Hanshir-IV-as-a-Woman_Poster_CompositorV1_1787699605499.jpg?v=1787702439"},{"product_id":"act-three-from-the-series-treasury-of-loyal-retainers-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Act Three from the series Treasury of Loyal Retainers - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicting a dramatic scene from the kabuki play Chūshingura.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a scene from the third act of the Chūshingura, or the Treasury of Loyal Retainers. The narrative, based on historical events involving the forty-seven rōnin, remains a staple of the kabuki theatre repertoire. Shunshō, a master of the Katsukawa school, focused his practice on yakusha-e, or actor prints, which aimed to capture the specific likenesses and dramatic intensity of performers on stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the artist employs a clear, linear style to delineate the figures. The central action involves a confrontation, with one figure standing with a raised sword while another recoils on the floor. A third figure observes the interaction, their posture and expression contributing to the tension of the scene. The use of colour is restrained, relying on a palette of muted tones that allow the focus to remain on the physical gestures and the interplay between the characters. The architectural elements in the background are rendered with minimal detail, providing a stage-like setting that directs the viewer's attention to the conflict.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō was known for his departure from the stylised, generic faces common in earlier ukiyo-e prints. Instead, he introduced a degree of realism that allowed audiences to identify individual actors by their facial features. This print demonstrates his ability to convey narrative momentum through posture and composition. The work serves as a record of the theatrical culture of the Edo period, documenting both the aesthetic preferences of the time and the dramatic conventions of the kabuki stage. The print is an example of the technical precision achieved by artisans and publishers working within the ukiyo-e tradition, where the collaborative process between the artist, carver, and printer resulted in works that were accessible to a wide public audience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58568014627151,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58568014692687,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58568014790991,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58568014823759,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58568014889295,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Act-Three-from-the-series-Treasury-of-Loyal-Retainers_Poster_CompositorV1_1787713638445.jpg?v=1787714124"},{"product_id":"actors-nakajima-kanzaemon-and-anekawa-shinshiro-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actors Nakajima Kanzaemon and Anekawa Shinshirō - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, depicting two Kabuki actors within a traditional fan-shaped composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō captures two figures from the Kabuki theatre, presented within the distinctive fan-shaped format known as uchiwa-e. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. He moved away from the stylised, generic portrayals of his predecessors, favouring a more realistic approach that captured the specific facial features and expressions of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOn the right, the actor Nakajima Kanzaemon is depicted with a dramatic, intense expression, his posture conveying the heightened emotion characteristic of a stage performance. His makeup and costume are rendered with precise lines, reflecting the aesthetic conventions of the time. To the left, Anekawa Shinshirō is shown in a more composed, feminine role, with delicate features and refined attire. The composition uses the fan shape to frame the subjects, creating a sense of intimacy and focus. The negative space surrounding the figures emphasises their presence, while the subtle colour palette, typical of prints from this era, relies on soft tones to define the garments and accessories.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō founded the Katsukawa school, which influenced many later artists, including Hokusai. His work provides a window into the popular culture of eighteenth-century Edo, documenting the performers who were the celebrities of their day. The print demonstrates the technical skill involved in woodblock production, where each colour required a separate carved block. The clarity of the lines and the balance of the composition demonstrate the mastery of the medium. This piece is an example of the commercial art produced for the urban population, serving both as a souvenir of the theatre and as a collectible object for enthusiasts of the floating world.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577053417807,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577053483343,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577053581647,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577053614415,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577053679951,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actors-Nakajima-Kanzaemon-and-Anekawa-Shinshir-_Poster_CompositorV1_1787823544802.jpg?v=1787824177"},{"product_id":"no-6-from-the-series-silkworm-cultivation-kaiko-yashinai-gusa-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"No. 6, from the series Silkworm Cultivation (Kaiko yashinai gusa) - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA detailed woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicting women engaged in the traditional Japanese industry of silkworm cultivation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō belongs to the series Kaiko yashinai gusa, or Silkworm Cultivation. The work depicts the domestic and agricultural labour involved in sericulture, a process of great economic importance in Edo-period Japan. Three women are shown tending to silkworms, which are arranged in shallow wooden trays. The composition focuses on the methodical nature of the task: one woman transfers cocoons from a basket, another manages a tray, and a third carries a container.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō, a master of the Katsukawa school, is known for his realistic portrayals of actors and contemporary life. In this series, he applies his observational skill to the rural industry of silk production. The figures wear simple, practical kimono, their heads covered with cloths to maintain hygiene and focus. The background features tiered shelving, which provides a sense of the scale of the operation. The lines are clean and precise, characteristic of the ukiyo-e style, while the colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft greens, muted oranges, and earthy tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eText in the upper portion of the print provides instructional context regarding the care of the silkworms, blending visual art with practical documentation. This print offers a glimpse into the daily lives of workers during the late eighteenth century. It avoids the theatricality often found in Shunshō's actor prints, opting instead for a quiet, documentary approach to a common trade. The print demonstrates the technical proficiency of the woodblock medium, with clear registration of colours and delicate linework defining the figures and their environment. It remains a valuable record of historical agricultural practices in Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577088381263,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577088446799,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577088545103,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577088577871,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577088643407,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/No_Poster_CompositorV1_1787823497781.jpg?v=1787824356"},{"product_id":"actor-ichimura-uzaemon-ix-as-a-devil-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Ichimura Uzaemon IX as a Devil - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the kabuki actor Ichimura Uzaemon IX in a dramatic, supernatural role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Ichimura Uzaemon IX in a supernatural role. Shunshō was a central figure in the development of yakusha-e, or actor prints, during the mid-Edo period. He moved away from the stylised, generic facial features common in earlier ukiyo-e, opting instead for realistic portraits that captured the specific likeness of individual performers. This shift allowed audiences to recognise their favourite actors on stage through the medium of printed art.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition focuses on the dynamic posture of the actor, who is shown in a moment of dramatic tension. The figure wears a patterned kimono featuring a repeating triangular motif, which contrasts with the fluid, dark lines of his hair and the sharp, angular expression on his face. Small horns are visible, identifying the character as a demon or devil, a common trope in kabuki theatre used to represent malevolent spirits or vengeful ghosts. The actor holds a staff aloft, his body coiled in a pose that suggests imminent movement or a sudden strike.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō’s approach to line work is precise, defining the contours of the robes and the intensity of the actor's gaze with clarity. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on soft tones that have mellowed with age, allowing the graphic quality of the print to take precedence. This work provides a window into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Edo, where the popularity of kabuki theatre drove a massive demand for souvenir prints. By capturing the energy of a live performance, Shunshō created a record of the actor's craft and the aesthetic conventions of the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577131798863,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577131864399,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577131962703,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577131995471,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577132061007,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Ichimura-Uzaemon-IX-as-a-Devil_Poster_CompositorV1_1787824009330.jpg?v=1787824733"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-nakazo-i-as-matano-no-goro-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Nakazō I as Matano no Gorō - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic 1775 woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in his role as the warrior Matano no Gorō.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of the warrior Matano no Gorō. The work originates from the play Hana-zumō Genji Hiiki, which was performed at the Nakamura Theater in Edo during the eleventh month of 1775. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on the portrayal of kabuki actors. He moved away from the stylised, generic features favoured by his predecessors, choosing instead to capture the specific facial characteristics and expressions of individual performers. This approach, known as nigao-e, allowed audiences to recognise their favourite actors with ease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the actor is shown in a dynamic pose, wearing a patterned kimono that features a grid design with floral motifs. He carries two swords at his waist, signifying his status as a samurai character. A branch of plum blossoms is visible behind him, adding a seasonal element to the scene. The lines are precise and controlled, characteristic of Shunshō's technical skill in woodblock carving and printing. The colour palette is restrained, relying on earthy tones and subtle washes to define the figure against the plain background. The print provides a glimpse into the theatrical culture of eighteenth-century Japan, where the fame of kabuki actors rivalled that of modern celebrities. By documenting these performances, artists like Shunshō preserved the ephemeral nature of the stage for a wider public audience. This print is a representative example of the Katsukawa school's influence on the development of actor portraiture, prioritising realism and individual identity over idealised forms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577827496271,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577827561807,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577827660111,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577827692879,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577827758415,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Nakaz-I-as-Matano-no-Gor-_Poster_CompositorV1_1787824255906.jpg?v=1787824850"},{"product_id":"act-ten-from-the-series-treasury-of-loyal-retainers-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Act Ten from the series Treasury of Loyal Retainers - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicting a dramatic scene from the Chūshingura theatre series.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a scene from the tenth act of the Chūshingura, a narrative based on the historical vendetta of the forty-seven rōnin. Shunshō, a master of the Katsukawa school, was known for his realistic portrayals of Kabuki actors, a departure from the stylised, mask-like faces common in earlier ukiyo-e works. In this composition, the artist captures a moment of quiet tension between two figures, likely Amakawaya Gihei and his wife, set against the architectural framework of a traditional Japanese interior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print demonstrates the artist's skill in balancing character expression with the graphic requirements of the medium. The male figure, dressed in a striped kimono, holds a small object, while the female figure carries a lantern, her posture suggesting a sense of movement or hesitation. The use of line is precise, defining the folds of the garments and the structural elements of the wooden walkway. The colour palette remains restrained, relying on earthy tones and muted greens to ground the figures within the space.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's approach to portraiture allowed for individualised features, which helped audiences identify specific actors performing in popular plays of the Edo period. This print functions as both a record of theatrical performance and a piece of graphic design. The composition uses the diagonal lines of the wooden structure to guide the viewer's eye across the scene, creating a sense of depth despite the two-dimensional nature of the print. The inclusion of text in the upper right corner provides context for the specific act being performed, a common feature in series prints intended for collectors and theatre enthusiasts of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577828217167,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577828282703,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577828381007,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577828413775,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577828479311,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Act-Ten-from-the-series-Treasury-of-Loyal-Retainers_Poster_CompositorV1_1787824144823.jpg?v=1787824956"},{"product_id":"animal-tale-kedamono-zukushi-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Animal Tale (Kedamono zukushi) - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA satirical woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō featuring anthropomorphic animals dressed as sumo wrestlers, blending folklore with Edo-period humour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, titled Animal Tale (Kedamono zukushi), offers a humorous look at the intersection of folklore and contemporary Edo-period culture. Shunshō, a master of the Katsukawa school, is widely recognised for his contributions to the ukiyo-e genre, particularly his realistic depictions of kabuki actors. In this composition, he departs from his typical portraiture to engage in a playful anthropomorphic exercise.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe print is organised into two distinct sections. The upper register features five figures dressed in the traditional mawashi of sumo wrestlers, yet each possesses the head of an animal. These figures are identified by name, blending human identity with beastly characteristics. The lower register presents a grid of sixteen additional figures, each standing in a similar pose, wearing loincloths decorated with varied patterns. These figures also display animal heads, ranging from foxes and badgers to wolves and hares. Each character is accompanied by a cartouche containing text, which provides names or descriptive titles for these hybrid beings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe visual style reflects the technical precision of the period, with clear, controlled lines defining the musculature of the wrestlers and the distinct features of the animals. The composition is structured and repetitive, creating a sense of order that contrasts with the absurdity of the subject matter. By placing these creatures in the context of sumo, a sport deeply embedded in Japanese cultural life, the artist creates a satirical commentary on the public fascination with famous wrestlers of the era. The work demonstrates the artist's ability to balance technical skill with a sense of wit, providing a glimpse into the popular culture and visual humour of eighteenth-century Japan. The print remains a curious example of how artists of the time used traditional techniques to explore imaginative and often irreverent themes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577877860687,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577877926223,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577878024527,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577878057295,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577878122831,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Animal-Tale-Kedamono-zukushi-_Poster_CompositorV1_1787825575737.jpg?v=1787825743"},{"product_id":"act-four-from-the-series-treasury-of-loyal-retainers-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Act Four from the series Treasury of Loyal Retainers - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing a dramatic scene from the Chūshingura narrative with characteristic focus on actor expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts a scene from the fourth act of the Chūshingura, the famous narrative concerning the forty-seven rōnin. Shunshō is recognised for his contributions to the ukiyo-e genre, particularly his realistic approach to kabuki actor portraiture. Unlike the stylised depictions common in earlier periods, his work captures specific facial expressions and individual character traits, a style known as yakusha-e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition organises the figures within a confined architectural space, typical of theatrical scenes adapted for print. The central figure stands with authority, surrounded by kneeling retainers whose postures suggest tension and collective resolve. The use of line is precise, defining the folds of the kimono and the sharp features of the actors. The colour palette remains restrained, utilising earthy tones alongside the characteristic red pigments often found in prints from this era. A pine branch extends from the upper left, providing a natural element that contrasts with the rigid, structured environment of the samurai household.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō founded the Katsukawa school, which influenced many subsequent artists, including Hokusai. His focus on the psychological state of the subjects, rather than mere physical likeness, brought a new dimension to the portrayal of dramatic narratives. This print serves as a record of both the theatrical performance and the artistic conventions of the mid-Edo period. The arrangement of the figures creates a sense of depth despite the two-dimensional nature of the medium, drawing the viewer into the narrative moment. The print remains a clear example of the technical skill required to produce multi-block colour images during the eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/nihonbashi-morning-scene-utagawa-hiroshige-1\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eNihonbashi: Morning Scene - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/street-performer-in-edo-utagawa-kuniyoshi\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eStreet Performer in Edo - Utagawa Kuniyoshi — Utagawa Kuniyoshi\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577921179983,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577921245519,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577921343823,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58577921376591,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58577921442127,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Act-Four-from-the-series-Treasury-of-Loyal-Retainers_Poster_CompositorV1_1787825879110.jpg?v=1787826124"},{"product_id":"actor-nakamura-nakazo-1st-as-sakon-gitsune-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Nakamura Nakazō 1st as Sakon-gitsune - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic ukiyo-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in a dynamic theatrical pose from 1775.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Nakazō I in the role of Sakon-gitsune. The performance took place at the Nakamura Theater in Edo during the eleventh month of 1775, as part of the production Hana-zumō Genji Hiiki. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of kabuki actors. He moved away from the stylised, generic faces common in earlier ukiyo-e prints, opting instead for realistic depictions that captured the specific features and expressions of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn this composition, the actor is captured in a dynamic pose, his body angled to suggest movement. The costume, rendered with clear lines and muted colour blocks, features a blue patterned kimono layered over white garments, accented by a bright orange sash. The background consists of a lattice fence, which provides a geometric contrast to the fluid lines of the actor's robes. A small branch extends from the upper right, adding a touch of natural detail to the stage setting. The print demonstrates the artist's skill in balancing the figure within the narrow vertical format of the hosoban sheet. The focus remains on the actor's intense expression and the theatricality of the moment, reflecting the popularity of kabuki culture in eighteenth-century Japan. Shunshō's approach influenced many subsequent artists, including his pupil Katsushika Hokusai, by establishing a standard for actor portraiture that prioritised individual characterisation over idealised beauty.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578059919695,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578059985231,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578060083535,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578060116303,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578060181839,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Nakamura-Nakaz-1st-as-Sakon-gitsune_Poster_CompositorV1_1787826166788.jpg?v=1787827049"},{"product_id":"actor-onoe-matsusuke-i-as-asahina-katsukawa-shunsho","title":"Actor Onoe Matsusuke I as Asahina - Katsukawa Shunshō","description":"\u003cp\u003eA classic yakusha-e woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō, capturing the actor Onoe Matsusuke I in a dramatic kabuki role.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunshō depicts the kabuki actor Onoe Matsusuke I in the role of the legendary warrior Asahina Saburō. Shunshō was a master of the yakusha-e genre, which focused on portraits of kabuki actors. He is credited with moving away from the generic, idealised facial features common in earlier prints, opting instead for realistic likenesses that captured the specific expressions and physical presence of individual performers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe composition is defined by the bold, angular lines of the actor's costume. The large, sweeping shapes of the garment create a sense of volume and weight, contrasting with the delicate, precise lines used to render the actor's face and the crane motif on his robe. The crane, a symbol of longevity and good fortune, is rendered with a circular, stylised form that anchors the lower half of the figure. The colour palette is restrained, relying on soft ochre, cream, and muted orange tones, which allows the viewer to focus on the dramatic posture and the intensity of the actor's gaze.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShunshō's work often utilised the hosoban format, a narrow, vertical sheet that was well-suited for depicting the tall, slender figures of actors on stage. This print demonstrates his ability to balance graphic design with character study. The figure occupies the space with a sense of theatrical authority, his pose suggesting a moment of pause or dramatic tension within a performance. By focusing on the actor's specific features and the symbolic elements of his costume, Shunshō provides a window into the aesthetic and cultural life of the Edo period. This print is a clear example of the technical skill and artistic vision that defined the Katsukawa school during the late 18th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"margin-top:2rem;padding-top:1.5rem;border-top:1px solid #e5e5e5;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#888;font-weight:600;margin:0 0 0.75rem;text-transform:uppercase;letter-spacing:0.05em;\"\u003eYou might also like\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"display:flex;flex-wrap:wrap;gap:0.5rem;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/tokaido-landscape-with-mount-fuji-utagawa-hiroshige\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003eTokaido Landscape with Mount Fuji - Utagawa Hiroshige — Utagawa Hiroshige\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"\/en-nz\/products\/poet-ono-no-komachi-standing-beneath-willow-by-a-stream-torii-kiyonaga\" style=\"display:inline-block;background:#f8f9fa;border:1px solid #e5e5e5;border-radius:20px;padding:0.35rem 0.85rem;font-size:0.8rem;color:#2a555a;font-weight:500;text-decoration:none !important;background-image:none !important;\"\u003ePoet Ono no Komachi Standing Beneath Willow by a Stream - Torii Kiyonaga — Torii Kiyonaga\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Katsukawa Shunshō","offers":[{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578060476751,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A4 (21x29.7 cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578060542287,"sku":null,"price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A3 (29.7 x 42  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578060640591,"sku":null,"price":60.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Black frame","offer_id":58578060673359,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true},{"title":"Fine Art Framed \/ A2 (42 x 59.4  cm) \/ Dark wood frame","offer_id":58578060738895,"sku":null,"price":90.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0833\/9292\/1935\/files\/Actor-Onoe-Matsusuke-I-as-Asahina_Poster_CompositorV1_1787826131077.jpg?v=1787827129"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.solisprints.com\/en-nz\/collections\/katsukawa-shunsho.oembed","provider":"Solis Prints","version":"1.0","type":"link"}