Nakamura Nakazö II as Matsuömaru in the play, Sugawara Denju Tenarai Kagami

Catalog note / 解説

This dynamic print is made distinctive by the heavy line of the actor’s mouth, a trademark of the actor Nakazö II. The line work in the creases of the kimono are heavier than usual and this, too,adds to the force of the depiction. The publisher, Yamaguchi-ya, opened its publishing firm in 1790 and was responsible for many of Toyokuni’s finest work up until 1820 when the company was dissolved. This fine bust portrait, under the strong influence of Töshüsai Sharaku but more forcefully designed than even that great artist’s work, is without question a masterpiece and exemplar of Toyokuni’s art at its very best. Only four impressions of this subject are known to survive and this is regarded as…