Backstage Celebrations of a Full-house Hit at the Ichimura Theater
Utagawa Kunisada
Description
Subject Matter:
This print shows the interior of the Ichimura-za theatre, one of three kabuki theatres in Edo (Tokyo) and home to many famous kabuki actors. The theatre opened in 1667. It burned down and was rebuilt several times through the nineteenth and early twentieth century. However, after burning in 1932 it was never rebuilt.
Physical Description:
Several men sit on a red mat in the center of the image, surrounded by movement. While they eat, behind them men are taking care of make-up, while in front others are busily moving equipment. Furniture and open boxes add to the business of the scene. Small blocks of text hovering nearby identify each individual.
This is the center panel of a triptych (with 1969/2.146 and 1969/2.148).
Inscriptions: Nishimuraya Yohachi (Publisher's seal); Kunisada ga (Artist's signature)
Usage Rights:
If you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit https://umma.umich.edu/request-image/ for more information and to fill out the online Image Rights and Reproductions Request Form.