The actor Otani Tokuji I as manservant Sodesuke 1794

Tōshūsai Sharaku's woodblock print presents the actor Otani Tokuji I as a manservant named Sodesuke. Created in Japan during the Edo period, this work captures a moment in Kabuki theater, a popular form of entertainment marked by elaborate costumes, stylized movements, and all-male casts. Here, the actor embodies a character from a specific societal position, that of a servant. The print doesn't just depict a role; it encapsulates a network of power dynamics. Kabuki often explored themes of class, duty, and social mobility, reflecting the era's complex social fabric. Sharaku's choice to portray this actor in this role may be seen as a reflection on the performative nature of identity, and the blurring lines between stage and reality. Notice the actor’s expression of slight surprise, and how he holds the object in his hand. These details add a layer of emotional depth, inviting us to contemplate the narratives and hidden meanings within the print.