Memorial Portraits of Bandō Mitsugorō III and Segawa Kikunojō V after 1833

Curator: Here we have a memorial print, “Memorial Portraits of Bandō Mitsugorō III and Segawa Kikunojō V," created by Utagawa Kuniharu sometime after 1833. It's part of the Ukiyo-e tradition. Editor: The muted palette, and slightly distorted figures immediately give the print a mournful, respectful feeling. Curator: These are memorial portraits for celebrated Kabuki actors, presented in a manner known as “nigao-e” a type of caricature that gained popularity. Prints like these served not only as memorials but also as records of popular figures and cultural moments. The details are incredibly important here. The writings at the top mark when they were honored. The placement, with Mitsugorō standing, reflects the respect due to one considered to be the elder statesman of the acting world. Editor: The linework throughout is just so elegant. I love the delicate patterning on Kikunojo’s robe versus the more solid blocks of color defining Mitsugoro's figure. The overlapping placement feels cleverly balanced; even with that parasol adding another textural element. It pulls the eye across the plane so smoothly. Curator: Indeed. Kuniharu, while less famous than some other Ukiyo-e artists, reflects here the values and priorities of the time period; celebrity, memorial culture and artistic experimentation existed side-by-side. Look closely at the expressive features Kuniharu captured and at the composition of the figures; that helps to really emphasize the actors' status within society. The formal print was just a way to cement that for all time, in a way. Editor: To me, there's an understated, elegant melancholy here. Everything about its construction pulls the viewer in, encouraging an attitude of contemplation on time, artistry, and what endures. Curator: I'll think I’ll consider memorial culture more after observing this. Editor: Absolutely. Let’s move on, I'm ready for the next discovery!