The Actors Bando Hikosaburo II as Watanabe no Tsuna and Matsumoto Tomijuro as Hakamadare no Yasusuke in the play "Furitsumu Hana Nidai Genji," performed at the Ichimura Theater in the eleventh month, 1765 1765

This woodblock print, created in 1765 by the renowned Japanese artist Kitao Shigemasa, captures a scene from the kabuki play "Furitsumu Hana Nidai Genji." The print depicts the famous actors Bando Hikosaburo II and Matsumoto Tomijuro in their roles as Watanabe no Tsuna and Hakamadare no Yasusuke. The dynamic composition, showcasing Tsuna riding a horse and Yasusuke kneeling below, is characteristic of ukiyo-e prints, depicting scenes of everyday life and popular entertainment. The print's vibrant colors and detailed costumes highlight the theatrical energy of the kabuki performance. This artwork, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural landscape of Edo-period Japan.