Hokushū’s Nakamura Utaemon III as Kyōgoku Takumi: An Osaka Kabuki Fan Print

A kabuki actor looks out from within the round outline of a fan. In this 1825 woodblock print, Shunkōsai Hokushū portrays Nakamura Utaemon III as Kyōgoku Takumi, a sword master. The circular design frames his striking expression and black costume. 🎴

An Actor and His Role

Nakamura Utaemon III was a celebrated performer on the Osaka kabuki stage. This print identifies him with the role of Kyōgoku Takumi. The actor’s arched brows and intense gaze bring the character to life without showing a full theatrical scene.

A Portrait Shaped Like a Fan

Look at the large circular outline around the figure and the fan handle extending below it. The format makes the face and costume the center of attention. Beneath the portrait, the inscription Issei ichidai atari kyōgen connects the image with a series devoted to notable stage roles.

Osaka actor prints offered theatergoers a way to revisit a performance after the curtain fell. Hokushū’s portrait invites us to follow the curve of the fan and return to the actor’s expression, a compact image full of stage presence. 🌸

Carry this fan-shaped portrait into everyday life with our Hokushū back-print hoodie. Explore more of the artist’s work in the Shunkōsai Hokushū collection.