Ichimura Uzaemon IX in the Role of Kiyohime in Musume Dōjōji (the Girl of Dōjōji) 1761 - 1781

This woodblock print by Ippitsusai Bunchō, a renowned Japanese artist of the Edo period, depicts Ichimura Uzaemon IX, a renowned kabuki actor, in the role of Kiyohime in the popular play Musume Dōjōji. The actor is dressed in the traditional costume of Kiyohime, a vengeful spirit who transforms into a serpent. This print is a testament to Bunchō's skill in capturing the essence of kabuki theatre, as it showcases the dramatic and expressive style of the performance. The print is part of the hosoe format, a popular style of Japanese woodblock prints that was typically used to depict actors in their roles.