Actor Sakata Hongoro II as a Wrestler in a Play 1760 - 1780

This ukiyo-e print, "Actor Sakata Hongoro II as a Wrestler in a Play" by Ippitsusai Bunchō, depicts the famous kabuki actor Sakata Hongoro II in a theatrical role. The print, created between 1760 and 1780, captures Hongoro II in a powerful pose, emphasizing his muscular physique and imposing presence. Bunchō, a prolific printmaker, utilized vivid colors and expressive lines to portray the actor's dramatic performance. The print is a testament to the enduring appeal of kabuki theater in 18th-century Japan and serves as a valuable window into the world of Edo-era entertainment.