Kabuki Actor Arashi Kitsusaburō II as Kajiwara Heiji, in the play Hiragana seisuiki (Records of the Battles between the Minamoto and Taira Clans in the Japanese Syllabary) 1827

This woodblock print by Gigadō Ashiyuki, a prominent artist of the Edo period, depicts Kabuki actor Arashi Kitsusaburō II portraying Kajiwara Heiji in the play Hiragana Seisuiki. Created in 1827, this ukiyo-e print is an excellent example of the genre's focus on portraying popular culture and theatrical figures. The vibrant colors and detailed depiction of the actor's costume and facial expression contribute to the work's dynamism and realism, capturing the essence of the character and performance. The surrounding cherry blossoms, a symbol of beauty and fleetingness, add a delicate touch to the composition. This print is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection in New York.