Artist: Katsukawa Shunsho
Title: Ichimura Uzaemon IX as Hanagata Shumenosuke (Morihisa)
Date: 1769
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Source:
Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description:
Ichimura Uzaemon IX appears as Hanagata Shumenosuke (Morihisa) in the New Year Ichimura-za Theater production of Meiwa 6 (1769). He stands holding a ceremonial hat over his head and wears red kumadori makeup that is meant to express his rage and excitement. The play relates the legendary tale of the warrior Taira Morihisa. When he was about to be executed, a bird flew to Morihisa's side and transformed into a protective Bodhisattva. After witnessing this event, Minamoto Yoritomo, an opponent, decided against taking Morihisa's life. The story was based on the epic battles between the Taira and Minamoto clans, which actually happened in the twelfth century. (from “Capturing Actor’s Spirit / Shunshö” exhibition 1/15/2009-)