Bold calligraphic strokes depict a noblewoman standing at the edge of a bridge surrounded by tall iris blooms. In the background, cursive kanji (or Chinese characters) beautify the negative space with text that is both decorative and meaningful. Likely produced for a broad audience, this yakushae (actor print) depicts a famous kabuki performer dressed as a courtesan. The actor is shown in an onnagata role, a male performer portraying a female character, identified by the shaved forelock concealed beneath a scarf. Set in the late spring or early summer, the fan signals the season as well as themes of wealth and leisure.
The setting references the 10th century Tales of Ise (Ise Monogatari). In the story, a nameless hero pauses on his journey toward his new home. Finding himself surrounded by blooming irises, he reflects on his wife and composes a poem in which the first syllable of each line spells out kakitsubata (iris). The iris, bridge, and marsh are iconic motifs that place the actor in a familiar setting that is both visual and poetic, evoking longing, memory, and perhaps a touch of regret. Similarly, the print’s light sensitive pigments of red, yellow, and blue have faded over time.
Description written by Kirstin Brehm, 2026