School of Katsukawa Sunshō, Actor with Umbrella, 1780s

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Edo-Period Actor Portrait with Umbrella – School of Katsukawa Shunshō, c.1780 : This elegant Edo-period Japanese woodblock print, dating from … Read more Edo-Period Actor Portrait with Umbrella – School of Katsukawa Shunshō, c.1780 : This elegant Edo-period Japanese woodblock print, dating from around 1780, depicts a seated kabuki actor dressed in formal robes (kamishimo), holding a closed paper umbrella. The composition is accompanied by a vertical poem in graceful calligraphy, a feature typical of refined actor portraits (yakusha-e) from the late 18th century.

The print’s delicate linework, restrained color palette, and dignified posture suggest the influence of Katsukawa Shunshō (1726–1793), founder of the Katsukawa school, or one of his leading pupils such as Shun’ei or Shunko. The actor is rendered with an economy of line and a subtle sensitivity to gesture. His robe, shaded in warm tones of ochre and pale green, bears formal crest motifs on the black hakama, conveying his social and theatrical status. The umbrella he holds—an object both practical and symbolic—adds a touch of narrative intimacy, suggesting a pause between scenes or a moment of reflection. Above, the elegantly brushed calligraphy may include the actor’s name and a poetic verse related to his performance or the season. This combination of image and inscription was characteristic of Shunshō’s actor portraits, which sought not only to represent the likeness of the performer but to capture the refined cultural atmosphere of Edo’s kabuki world. This print exemplifies the sophisticated simplicity of early ukiyo-e portraiture, where line, color, and poetry are perfectly balanced. Works from the Katsukawa school mark an important transition in Japanese art, moving from the stylized Torii school to the more expressive realism that later influenced masters such as Sharaku and Toyokuni.

Condition report: Fair overall condition for its age, with some toning, light foxing, small wormholes and edge wear consistent with 18th-century paper. Small creases and minor losses at corners. The impression is clear with visible woodgrain texture and finely preserved linework.
Maker: School of Katsukawa Shunshō, Japan, circa 1780 See less