Sanokawa Ichimatsu III as Sekinoto, wife of Fuwa Benzaemon 1794

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, created by Tōshūsai Sharaku in 1794, depicts the kabuki actor Sanokawa Ichimatsu III as Sekinoto, the wife of Fuwa Benzaemon. Sharaku was known for his striking portraits of actors, and this print captures Ichimatsu III's intense gaze and dramatic pose. The intricate details of the actor's costume, including the patterned robe and the distinctive "Fuwa" crest, reflect the visual richness of kabuki theatre, a major art form in Edo-period Japan. Sharaku's work is considered a significant contribution to the development of ukiyo-e, and this print is a testament to his skill in capturing the essence of the theatrical world.