Memorial Portrait of the Actor Ichikawa Danjuro VIII 1854

This *ukiyo-e* woodblock print, created in 1854 by an anonymous artist, depicts a memorial portrait of the renowned Japanese actor Ichikawa Danjuro VIII. The print shows Danjuro lying in a coffin, surrounded by mourners who express their grief through various gestures and expressions. The composition emphasizes the somber atmosphere of the scene, highlighting the respect and admiration that Danjuro held within the community. This artwork provides a glimpse into the world of Edo-period theater and the importance of actors in Japanese culture.