Nakamura Shikan II als de vos (kitsune) Genkurô in het toneelstuk ‘Hanayagura hitome senbon’, Naka Theater 1835

Shunbaisai Hokuei created this woodblock print depicting Nakamura Shikan II as the fox Genkurô in the play ‘Hanayagura hitome senbon’ at the Naka Theater. The play takes place in a very specific moment in Japanese history: the Genpei War in the late 12th century, which was a conflict between the Taira and Minamoto clans for control of Japan. Here, Nakamura Shikan II is dressed in an elaborate costume, representing not just a character, but a being that transcends the human form. Notice the actor’s exaggerated expression, a hallmark of kabuki theater, which conveys a sense of drama. The fox is a popular figure in Japanese folklore, and is often seen as a trickster, with the ability to shapeshift. Hokuei captures the emotional intensity of the performance. What do we make of the portrayal of mythical figures on the stage? How does the intersection of folklore, performance, and identity invite us to reflect on our own perceptions of reality and illusion?