The Actor Nakamura Tomijuro 1780 - 1810

Katsukawa Shunko’s ‘The Actor Nakamura Tomijuro’ is a woodblock print that captures the essence of Kabuki theatre and its stars. The print was created in a time when Kabuki was not just entertainment but a vibrant cultural phenomenon. It offered a space to explore themes of social order, gender roles, and individual expression. In this print, Nakamura Tomijuro embodies a character that is both powerful and refined. He is wearing elaborate headgear and his face is dominated by heavy makeup. Kabuki roles often challenged gender norms through ‘onnagata’ actors who played women's roles. This subversion of identity was a critical aspect of Kabuki's appeal, offering audiences a space to question and reimagine societal expectations. The art of Kabuki is rooted in history and cultural context. Shuko’s print immortalizes a moment in this rich, performative tradition, allowing us to reflect on the fluidity of identity.