The Actor Arashi Otohachi as a Young Samurai in Woman's Clothes 1746 - 1766

This woodblock print, created by the renowned Japanese artist Torii Kiyohiro, depicts the kabuki actor Arashi Otohachi in the role of a young samurai dressed in women's clothing. The print, created during the Edo period, showcases Kiyohiro's mastery of detail and vibrant colors, capturing the elegance and grace of the actor's performance. The image features Otohachi holding two swords, a symbol of his warrior character, and the delicate floral patterns of the kimono further emphasize the playfulness of the character’s gender-bending role. This piece, a captivating example of ukiyo-e art, highlights the artistry of the kabuki theater and the vibrant culture of Edo-period Japan.