Memorial Portrait of the Actor Ichikawa Ebizo V 1859

This woodblock print, created in 1859 by an anonymous artist, depicts Ichikawa Ebizo V, a renowned kabuki actor, in a close-up portrait. The print showcases the actor’s expressive face and traditional Japanese attire, while the detailed inscription surrounding his image provides information about his career and achievements. This captivating piece of Japanese art, now housed in The Art Institute of Chicago, offers a glimpse into the world of kabuki theater and the enduring legacy of its performers.