The Third Segawa Kikunojo as a Woman 1770 - 1790

Katsukawa Shunkō made this woodblock print, depicting The Third Segawa Kikunojo, sometime in the late 18th century. Segawa was an onnagata actor, a male performer who specialized in playing female roles in Kabuki theater. This print offers us a glimpse into the complex relationship between gender, performance, and identity in Edo-period Japan. Onnagata were not simply impersonating women; they were creating idealized versions of femininity that captivated audiences. Segawa's refined posture and elegant kimono speak to the artistic skill that was needed to embody such roles. The print also raises questions about the male gaze and the representation of women. While Segawa was celebrated for his ability to portray female characters, his performances were ultimately shaped by male perceptions of femininity. This tension between admiration and objectification is something to consider as you observe the subtle details of Segawa's expression and costume.