The Cleveland Museum of Art Special Exhibitions Visions of Japan

  Visions of Japan > Highlights of the Exhibition > Ichikawa Ebizo IV as Takemura Sadanoshin
 
 
Image of <I>IIchikawa Ebizo IV as Takemura Sadanoshin</I>, 1794<br>Toshusai Sharaku (Japanese)
<br>color woodblock print
<br> Bequest of Edward L. Whittemore,1930.205
Ichikawa Ebizo IV as Takemura Sadanoshin, 1794
Toshusai Sharaku (Japanese)
color woodblock print
Bequest of Edward L. Whittemore,1930.205

Ichikawa Ebizo IV as Takemura Sadanoshin

In June 1794 at the Kawarazaki Theater, this Kabuki actor portrayed a father who commits suicide after being disgraced by his daughter who had a child out of wedlock. The intense expression of the mouth and eyes demonstrates the conventional mie pose used by actors to show heightened emotion.

A member of the famous Ichikawa acting family, Ebizo IV is recognized here by his family crest--three nested boxes--visible on his robes. The design recalls the three boxes of rice given to the actor as a gift by a fan. It was the Ichikawa family crest for over 300 years.


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