The Actor Segawa Kikunojo II as Oiso no Tora in the play "Soga Moyo Aigo no Wakamatsu," performed at the Nakamura Theater in the first month, 1769 1769

This "ukiyo-e" print by Torii Kiyomitsu depicts the famous Kabuki actor Segawa Kikunojo II as Oiso no Tora in the play "Soga Moyo Aigo no Wakamatsu". The play was performed at the Nakamura Theater in 1769, and Kiyomitsu's print captures the actor's iconic portrayal, which would have been an extremely popular and memorable role for audiences at the time. The print's elongated shape, known as a "hashira-e" (pillar print), was designed to be displayed on pillars in homes and teahouses, bringing the vibrant world of Kabuki to everyday life. The dynamic composition and intricate details in the print highlight Kiyomitsu's mastery of the woodblock printing technique, making this a prime example of Edo-period art.