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Iwai Shijaku II (Kumesaburo III)

Kunichika, 1864, Wood cut
Iwai Shijaku II (Kumesaburo III)
Iwai Shijaku II (Kumesaburo III)
Iwai Shijaku II (Kumesaburo III)
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Category
Library Item
Item no
311
Title
Iwai Shijaku II (Kumesaburo III) as Okami the daughter of Doguya.
Description
The actor, named as Iwai Shijaku II, is depicted performing an 'onnagata' (female) role. Since 1629, women had been banned from performing on stage and thereafter all of the female roles in Kabuki were performed by men. The actor wears a costume that resembles the traditonal Japanese bridal kimono and headdress. The red underkimono adds an element of eroticism to the costume. The figure is shown kneeling down surrounded by stacks of straw.
Artist / maker
Engraver
Horicho??man
Date
1864
Size
36 x 24.5 cm.
Type
Location
Art and Design Library
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