Actor Ōtani Hiroeman III as Asahara Jirō 1778

This woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunsho, titled "Actor Ōtani Hiroeman III as Asahara Jirō", is a *hosoban*, or "single-figure" print. The *hosoban* was a common format in Japanese art, and was specifically used to depict actors in their roles, as can be seen here. The print shows Ōtani Hiroeman III in the role of Asahara Jirō, a character in the kabuki play, "Yoshitsune and the Thousand Cherry Trees", in a dramatic pose, with his sword drawn. The print was created in 1778 and uses vibrant colors and detailed lines to capture the actor's persona. This artwork is considered a fine example of the *ukiyo-e* style that was popular in Japan during the Edo Period.