The Actor Bandō Hikosaburo I in a Female Role 1711 - 1785

Ishikawa Toyonobu made this print of the actor Bandō Hikosaburo I in a female role with ink and color on paper. This image offers a glimpse into the vibrant Kabuki theatre of 18th-century Japan. But it also tells us a lot about the social and cultural norms of that time. Kabuki was a popular form of entertainment, particularly in urban centers like Edo, modern-day Tokyo. Yet, the actors were seen as social outsiders, despite their fame and popularity. The fact that Bandō Hikosaburo, a male actor, is depicted in a female role is significant. All female roles were played by men, a practice that reflected the gender norms of the time and the official ban on women performing on stage. Art historians delve into playbills, diaries, and other period documents. By using such resources, we gain insight into the nuances of performance, gender, and social status in Edo-period Japan. This helps us better understand the contingent nature of art.