Makinohara at Mochizuki Station- (Actor Nakamura Utaemon IV as) Ōtaka Tonomo Possibly 1852

This woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada, also known as Utagawa Toyokuni III, is a portrait of the kabuki actor Nakamura Utaemon IV portraying the character Ōtaka Tonomo. The print, created around 1852, showcases Kunisada’s skill in capturing the essence of kabuki theater, vividly depicting Utaemon IV's dramatic performance with bold colors and intricate details. The print's composition centers on the actor's powerful presence, with his bright red wig and intense gaze captivating the viewer. Kunisada's meticulous depiction of the actor’s costume and the background setting—a landscape with a distant village—further enhances the print’s theatricality. "Makinohara at Mochizuki Station" provides a glimpse into the vibrant world of Japanese theater, showcasing the artistry of both the actor and the printmaker.