Kabuki Actors Ōtani Oniji III and Ichikawa Omezō I 1794

This woodblock print by Tōshūsai Sharaku, a mysterious artist who only worked for a brief period, is a dramatic portrayal of Kabuki actors Ōtani Oniji III and Ichikawa Omezō I in 1794. Sharaku's prints, known for their realism and exaggerated features, captured the energy and expressiveness of Kabuki theatre. The print features the two actors in dynamic poses, their facial expressions and the placement of their swords emphasizing the intensity of the scene. The use of rich colors, detailed costumes, and contrasting light and shadow further enhance the theatrical impact of the work. This print is a striking example of the "ukiyo-e" style, which depicts the everyday lives and amusements of the Edo period in Japan.