Ichikawa Monosuke III in the Role of the Otokodate Sukeroku 1776 - 1796

This woodblock print by Katsukawa Shunko depicts Ichikawa Monosuke III as Otokodate Sukeroku. Here, the umbrella above the figure is more than mere protection from the sun. Throughout history, the parasol has signified status and power, akin to the canopies held above rulers in ancient processions. Sukeroku, a charismatic commoner hero, appropriates this symbol. We see a similar act of symbolic borrowing in Renaissance paintings, where figures adopt classical garb to convey authority. The cherry blossoms hint at fleeting beauty and mortality, a poignant contrast with Sukeroku’s defiant stance. Consider how blossoms appear in vanitas paintings, urging viewers to reflect on the ephemeral nature of existence. Thus, the image captures this moment in time and continues to remind viewers of cultural memory. The artist captures a sense of defiant pride which evokes a potent, almost subconscious, response, ensuring this symbol continues its non-linear, cyclical progression.