Omezo Ichikawa, Actor Portrait by Sharaku (1794)

Tōshūsai Sharaku’s Artwork

Tōshūsai Sharaku’s 初代市川男女蔵の奴一平
(Ichikawa Omezo I as Yakko Ippei) is a compelling ukiyo-e portrait that vividly captures the kabuki actor Ichikawa Omezo I in a dramatic onstage moment.
This work exemplifies Sharaku’s bold and psychological style, highlighting both the actor’s individual features and the theatrical intensity of the role.

The Artwork: 初代市川男女蔵の奴一平

This print portrays Ichikawa Omezo I as Yakko Ippei, a manservant character from the kabuki play
Koinyōbō Somewake Tazuna, staged in May 1794 at the Kawarazaki-za theater.
The scene depicts Ippei drawing his sword to confront adversaries, his expression filled with determination and resolve.
Sharaku captures the tension through sharply defined facial features, piercing eyes, and the vivid red undergarment (aka-juban),
which earned the piece the popular nickname “Red Underrobe.”
The actor’s posture, expressive gaze, and dynamic costume detail reinforce the climactic energy of this performance.

About Ichikawa Omezo I

Ichikawa Omezo I (1781–1833) was a kabuki actor noted for his strength in tachiyaku (male lead) and villain roles.
A disciple of the renowned Ichikawa Danjuro V, Omezo quickly rose to prominence in Edo’s competitive kabuki world.
Known for his forceful stage presence and emotionally charged acting, he specialized in vigorous heroic characters
and fierce confrontational roles.
His youthful intensity and commanding presence are clearly reflected in Sharaku’s portrait.

Significance of the Portrait

Sharaku’s print transcends a simple stage likeness by offering a psychological glimpse into both the role of Ippei
and the actor himself.
The bold expression, dramatic tilt of the body, and searing eyes create a portrait full of immediacy and tension.
This work stands as a prime example of Sharaku’s revolutionary approach to actor portraiture—balancing vivid realism with deep theatricality—
and remains one of the iconic depictions of kabuki’s energy and expressive power.

---