Actors Playing a Ken Game (with dance instructions) Possibly 1848

"Actors Playing a Ken Game (with dance instructions)" is a woodblock print created by Utagawa Kunisada, a prominent Japanese artist of the Edo period, in 1848. The print depicts three actors performing a "ken" game, a traditional Japanese game of chance, while simultaneously demonstrating dance steps. Kunisada’s work is known for its vibrant colors, dynamic compositions, and attention to detail. The print exemplifies the popularity of kabuki theater and the artistic tradition of ukiyo-e, which captured the everyday life and popular culture of Edo-period Japan. The image showcases the lively and entertaining aspect of kabuki plays, offering a glimpse into the world of Japanese theater during this era.