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The Actor Ichikawa Danjuro VI as a Nobleman, from an untitled series of half-length portraits of actors
Not on view
The most influential artist and leader of the Utagawa school—a prominent lineage of Edo-period print designers—Utagawa Toyokuni specialized in theatrical subjects. Although many of his Kabuki prints feature actors in standing poses, in the mid-1790s, the artist also produced numerous okubi-e (close-up head portraits), such as this image of Ichikawa Danjūrō VI (1778–1799) adorned in red kumadori (stage makeup), symbolizing heroism and strength.
A promising young performer and member of a theatrical family dynasty, Danjūrō died unexpectedly of a sudden illness before reaching his prime. He garnered immense fame despite his short career, and his portrait was in high demand. Prints such as this acted as souvenirs, allowing admirers to relive the thrill of the performance and feel personally connected to a Kabuki star.
- Artist
- Utagawa Toyokuni I (1769-1825)
- Publisher
- Yamaguchi Chisuye (Japanese)
- Title
- The Actor Ichikawa Danjuro VI as a Nobleman, from an untitled series of half-length portraits of actors
- Date
- 1796
- Object Type
- Medium
- Color woodblock print with mica
- Dimensions
- Sheet: 15 1/16 x 10 3/16 in. (38.3 x 25.9 cm) Image (Cropped): 12 9/16 x 10 1/8 in. (31.9 x 25.7 cm)
- Credit Line
- Katherine Ball Collection
- Accession Number
- 41.42.116
