The First Nakamura Denkuro and the First Otani Hiroemon in a Scene from a Soga Play 1707 - 1711

"The First Nakamura Denkuro and the First Otani Hiroemon in a Scene from a Soga Play," a 1707-1711 woodblock print by Okumura Masanobu, depicts two famous kabuki actors in a scene from a play. The piece captures the energy and drama of a Soga play, a genre of Japanese theatre that often focuses on revenge and historical events. Masanobu's masterful use of line and shading creates a sense of depth and realism, showcasing the actors' expressive poses and the intricate details of their costumes. This print is a prime example of ukiyo-e, a genre of Japanese art that flourished during the Edo period and depicted scenes from everyday life, including kabuki theater.