Endō Musha Moritō: Ichikawa Danjūrō VII by Gototei Kunisada

Endō Musha Moritō — Ichikawa Danjūrō VII

Gototei Kunisada (五渡亭国貞, later Toyokuni III) | early 1820s (Bunsei era) | Ōban nishiki-e woodblock print

In this dynamic actor portrait, Kunisada depicts Ichikawa Danjūrō VII — later known as Ichikawa Ebizō V — as Endō Musha Moritō. The print bears Kunisada's Gototei signature at the lower right. 🎭

A Dramatic Pose on Stone Steps

Stone paving rises behind the actor as he pulls one side of his costume back and strikes a forceful mie pose. His bare foot presses into the ground while one hand grips the fabric, turning the moment into a study of tension and movement. ⛩️

Costume and Character

Bold peony motifs stand out against the black robe, alongside geometric patterns recalling a kamishimo. Kunisada uses these striking details to give the actor's stage presence a vivid graphic form. 🌸

About the Artist

Gototei Kunisada was an early name used by Utagawa Kunisada, who later became known as Toyokuni III. His kabuki portraits celebrate the gestures, costumes, and personalities that captivated Edo audiences. 🎴

Discover more about ukiyo-e and kabuki art at Atelier UKIYO.