Kabuki Actors Sawamura Sōjūrō III and Sanogawa Ichimatsu III in "A Courtesan’s Mirror for the Eastern Provinces" (Keisei Azuma kagami) 1788

Katsukawa Shunkō created this diptych depicting Kabuki actors Sawamura Sōjūrō III and Sanogawa Ichimatsu III, printed on paper, during the Edo period. Kabuki theater served as a vibrant intersection of art and social commentary, reflecting the complex dynamics of Japanese society. Here, gender and class intersect within the stylized performance. The male actor, Sawamura Sōjūrō III, embodies a male role, while Sanogawa Ichimatsu III plays the part of a courtesan. During this time, it was common practice for male actors to perform female roles. The courtesan’s elaborate kimono, juxtaposed with the samurai’s garb, signifies the strict social hierarchy of the era. Shunkō captures not just a scene from a play, but also invites us to reflect on the fluidity of identity, as well as gender roles within the Kabuki tradition. The emotional depth conveyed through the actors' expressions offers a glimpse into the performative nature of identity, challenging traditional representations and societal norms.