Triptych of Kabuki Actors (2)

Artist Utagawa Toyokuni II (Tokyo, Japan, 1777 - 1835)

Date1825-1830

Mediumcolour woodcut on paper

ClassificationsPrints

DimensionsPlate Size: Height: 38.5 cm, Width: 25 cm

AcquisitionPresented in 1955 by Miss Hogarty.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG008484

Keywords

Japanese

About MeThis portrait is probably the central panel of a triptych, together with ABDAG008485. Japanese letters bear the name of the actor, Onoe Kikugoro III (1784-1849) who was extremely famous for his handsome face and meticulous stage direction. Kikugoro's acting crest 'kiku' (chrysanthemum) appears on his robe.

Toyokuni II's sophisticated sense of colour is evident here as is a delicate facial expression. The artist also successfully creates depth on a flat surface with combinations of diagonal lines, composed of the background screens. The whole impression of the portrait reminds the audience of the Japanese word 'iki', which means 'chic'.
The censor's seal under the signature was used between 1815-1842.
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This is probably the central panel of a triptych and show a famous actor. Depth is provided to the flat surface by the screens in the background.