The Actor Segawa Kikunojo I as Hanjo in the play "Tsumagoi Sumidagawa," performed at the Nakamura Theater in the third month, 1733 1733

This woodblock print, made in Japan in 1733 by Torii Kiyomasu II, depicts the actor Segawa Kikunojo I in the role of Hanjo. It offers a glimpse into the vibrant world of Kabuki theatre and its place in the social life of the Edo period. Kabuki emerged as a popular, and at times scandalous, form of entertainment during this time. Originally, female performers were common, but institutional pressures led to the rise of male actors, like Segawa, who specialized in female roles. This print, created to promote a specific performance at the Nakamura Theater, reflects the close relationship between the theatre and the commercial art world. The stylized depiction of Segawa, along with the play’s title, served as advertising, enticing audiences to attend the show. The print's survival provides valuable insights into the theatrical culture and commercial networks of Edo-period Japan. By studying playbills, theater records, and other related materials, we can better understand the social and institutional contexts that shaped this captivating image.