The Actors Yamashita Mangiku, Iwai Hanshiro IV, and Iwai Kumesaburo from a pentaptych of eleven actors celebrating the festival of the shrine of the Soga brothers 1788

This ukiyo-e print by Torii Kiyonaga depicts three famous kabuki actors: Yamashita Mangiku, Iwai Hanshiro IV, and Iwai Kumesaburo. The print is part of a larger series of eleven actors celebrating the festival of the Soga brothers, a popular Japanese legend. The actors are portrayed in elaborate costumes, showcasing the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the Edo period. The use of perspective and fine lines gives the print a sense of realism, capturing the actors' personalities and theatrical presence. The print is housed at the Art Institute of Chicago, showcasing the popularity of ukiyo-e art and its cultural significance.