The Actor Otani Hiroji III, Armed with a Sword 1759 - 1779

"The Actor Otani Hiroji III, Armed with a Sword" is a ukiyo-e print, depicting a kabuki actor, by Ippitsusai Bunchō. A popular genre in Edo-period Japan, ukiyo-e prints often portrayed scenes from kabuki theater, everyday life, and landscapes. The print showcases a powerful depiction of Hiroji, an acclaimed kabuki actor, who is positioned in a dramatic pose, holding a sword and a bowl. The print, characterized by bold lines and vivid colors, is a testament to Bunchō’s artistry, who captured the dynamism of kabuki performance in his works.