Kanya Morita, Actor Portrait by Sharaku (1794)

Tōshūsai Sharaku’s Artwork

“Tōshūsai Sharaku’s artwork 八代目森田勘弥の駕籠舁鴬の次郎作
(The actor Morita Kanya VIII as the palanquin bearer Uguisu no Jirosaku)
is a celebrated example of ukiyo-e that captures the artistry of both the mysterious printmaker Sharaku and the famed kabuki actor Morita Kanya VIII. This piece powerfully embodies Sharaku’s unique approach to actor portraiture and the dynamic personality that Morita brought to his roles.

The Artwork: 八代目森田勘弥の駕籠舁鴬の次郎作

This print depicts Morita Kanya VIII in the role of Uguisu no Jirosaku,
a palanquin bearer, in the kabuki play Kataikiuchi Noriyai Banashi.
The character is shown performing the dance Modorikago,
known for its energetic movements.
The print is renowned for its expressive eyes and dynamic composition,
hallmarks of Sharaku’s early works. These features emphasize both the physical vitality of Jirosaku
and the actor’s ability to convey character through subtle psychological nuance.

About Morita Kanya VIII

Morita Kanya VIII (1759–1814) was a prominent kabuki actor and a theatre manager associated with the
Morita-za, one of Edo’s three licensed theaters.
He was not only a talented performer but also an innovative leader
who contributed to the evolution of kabuki.
In this role, he often played both dramatic and comedic parts,
exhibiting exceptional versatility and embodying the spirit of Edo-period theater.

Significance of the Portrait

Sharaku’s depiction goes beyond mere likeness, highlighting both the role and the performer’s artistry.
The portrait captures Morita Kanya VIII’s theatrical finesse
while simultaneously revealing Sharaku’s vision—one that values realism and emotion over idealization.
This synergy makes the work one of ukiyo-e’s most enduring actor portraits,
bridging viewers to the energy of 18th-century kabuki theater.

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