Actor Bandō Hikosaburō III as Kudō Suketsune Possibly 1794

Katsukawa Shun'ei created this woodblock print of the actor Bandō Hikosaburō III in the role of Kudō Suketsune. Here, we see the actor portraying a character from the world of Kabuki theater, a popular form of entertainment particularly enjoyed by the merchant class in Japan. Consider the gaze of the actor. The red makeup around his eyes amplifies the intensity of his stare, drawing us into the emotional drama of the play. The tension in his face hints at the complex narratives of duty, honor, and conflict typical of Kabuki stories. Prints like these were not just records; they were powerful endorsements that shaped an actor’s public image and popularity. Through Shun'ei’s work, we glimpse the vibrant intersection of art, performance, and the commercial culture of Japan, reflecting the delicate balance between public persona and personal identity.