The actors Sawamura Yodogoro II (R) as Kawatsura Hogen and Bando Zenji (L) as Onisadobo 1794

This ukiyo-e woodblock print, created in 1794 by Tōshūsai Sharaku, depicts the actors Sawamura Yodogoro II and Bando Zenji as characters in a kabuki play. Known for his striking portrayals of actors, Sharaku's work is characterized by bold lines, exaggerated features, and intense expressions. This print showcases the distinctive style, with the actors' faces rendered with meticulous detail, emphasizing their dramatic gestures and the play's emotional intensity. The dynamic composition and the actors' expressive poses create a sense of movement and tension, captivating the viewer.