Ichikawa Danjuro IX als de geest van Kagekiyo Possibly 1896

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, created by Torii Kiyotada, depicts Ichikawa Danjuro IX as the ghost of Kagekiyo, a famous warrior from the Heike Monogatari. The dramatic composition and bold use of color are characteristic of Kiyotada’s style, which is known for its vibrant and energetic representations of kabuki actors. The print’s title, "Ichikawa Danjuro IX as the ghost of Kagekiyo," emphasizes the subject’s identity as a kabuki actor and the specific role he is portraying. This artwork, likely dated 1896, showcases the dynamic nature of kabuki theatre and the enduring popularity of these theatrical figures in Japanese art.