<b>ICHIIKAWA SUMIZO AS GONPACHI</b> / Natori Shunsen1926<B>RESERVED</B></em>

Details

In Natori Shunsen's captivating woodblock print, the essence of Kabuki theater is vividly brought to life. Amidst the anticipation of impending action, Shunsen skillfully captures a moment of intense drama and introspection. Here, the actor Ichiikawa Sumizo embodies the character of Gonpachi, his demeanor introspective and slightly downcast. As the viewer gazes upon the scene, they are drawn into the intensity of the moment, where the most profound emotions often unfold in the quiet interludes between action sequences. The print's power lies in the actor's striking stance, his arms folded with a katana nearby, poised for the inevitable confrontation. Against a backdrop of lush vegetation, rendered in captivating shades of gray and green through intricate bokashi techniques, the stage is set for the unfolding drama. Through Shunsen's masterful portrayal, viewers are transported into a world where every gesture and expression carries profound significance, inviting them to immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Kabuki theater.

Connoisseur's Note

Originally, these prints by Shunsen were distributed in paper folders that regrettably posed a threat to the prints themselves. These folders were crafted from low-grade paper with a high acidity content, leading to considerable damage to the prints over time. It is common to observe this design exhibiting varying degrees of toning, notably noticeable in the actor's facial features. Fortunately, this particular print was removed from its folder at an early stage and has been stored in an archival container for the majority of its existence. As a result, this impression exhibits no toning, and the colors remain pristine, mirroring their appearance on the day of production.