Public domain
Actor as evil imperial messenger
From the collection of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
Kabuki actor Nakamura Sukegorô II in the role of a wicked messenger of the emperor. He is dressed in a ceremonial costume with a long, floor-sweeping pair of trousers and a characteristic black lacquered court hat. On the wide upper part of his costume is his family coat of arms; the Japanese character 'mune' is depicted large. The pattern of blooming thistles on the clothing, and the red makeup around the eyes, emphasize his wicked character.
Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s own descriptionSubjects
Credit lineActor as evil imperial messenger. c. 1770 - c. 1780. Katsukawa Shunsho. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Public domain.
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