The Actor Ichikawa Komazō II in the Role of Ono Sadakurō 1780 - 1800

Katsukawa Shun’ei created this woodblock print depicting the actor Ichikawa Komazo II in the role of Ono Sadakuro. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the popular culture of late 18th and early 19th century Japan. Woodblock prints like this one were immensely popular and catered to the tastes of the urban middle class. Shun’ei and other artists often depicted famous Kabuki actors in their most well-known roles. The Kabuki theater itself was a major social institution. It provided entertainment but also served as a space where social norms were both reinforced and sometimes challenged. Here, the artist uses visual codes, like the actor’s costume and pose, to convey character and narrative. His stern expression shows that he is about to avenge a wrong. You may also notice the falling rain. In Japanese art and culture, rain is often associated with melancholy or foreboding. By studying playbills, theater reviews, and other period documents, we can better understand the social and cultural context of this print. The meaning of art is contingent on social and institutional context.