The Actors Azuma Tozo III and Otani Tokuji, from a pentaptych of eleven actors celebrating the festival of the shrine of the Soga brothers 1788

This woodblock print, "The Actors Azuma Tozo III and Otani Tokuji," is part of a larger series by renowned Japanese artist Torii Kiyonaga (1752-1815). The print, which depicts two famous actors, captures the essence of Kabuki theater, a popular form of Japanese entertainment in the Edo period. Kiyonaga, known for his elegant and refined style, skillfully portrays the actors in dynamic poses, their costumes and expressions reflecting the vibrancy of the performance. The print is a testament to the artist's mastery of the ukiyo-e tradition and offers viewers a glimpse into the world of Japanese theater in the late 18th century.