The Actor Nakamura Matsue III as Keisei Agemaki c. early 19th century

This ukiyo-e woodblock print by Shunshosai Hokucho depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Matsue III as Keisei Agemaki, a famous courtesan, and is a stunning example of the genre's focus on popular culture and theatrical figures. Hokucho, a short-lived but influential artist, captures the beauty and elegance of the character, with intricate details in the kimono and elaborate hairstyle. The use of bright colors, particularly the vibrant pinks and yellows, is typical of the Edo period, adding a sense of vibrancy and dynamism to the scene. The print, a testament to Hokucho's mastery of the medium, now resides at the Art Institute of Chicago.