Female Impersonator Collection (#17)

Act III (Dai sandanme): Actors Bando Hikosaburo V as Hayano Kanpei and Sawamura Tanosuke III as Koshimoto Okaru, from the series The Storehouse of Loyal Retainers, a Primer (Kanadehon chushingura)

Act VII (Dai nanadanme): Actors Kataoka Nizaemon VIII as Oboshi Yuranosuke, Sawamura Tanosuke as Okaru, from the series The Storehouse of Loyal Retainers, a Primer (Kanadehon chushingura)

Act VI (Dai rokudanme): Actors Bando Hikosaburo as Hayano Kanpei and Sawamura Tanosuke as His Wife Okaru, from the series The Storehouse of Loyal Retainers, a Primer (Kanadehon chushingura)

Nakayama Tomisaburo in a Female Role, ca. 1790-1825. Creator: Utagawa Toyokuni I
Nakayama Tomisaburo in a Female Role, ca. 1790-1825

The Actor, Ichikawa Danjuro I, 1660-1704 as a Woman in Unidentified Role

The Actor Ikushima Daikichi as a Woman Standing under an Ume Tree, ca. 1705

Ichikawa Danjuro Fifth as Kyo no Jiro in Disguise as Dekuroku byoe the Stree Puppet-sh... ca. 1788
Ichikawa Danjuro Fifth as Kyo no Jiro in Disguise as Dekuroku byoe the Stree Puppet-showman, ca. 1788

Actor Sakakiyama Sangoro II as Michinagas Daughter Princess Otae, 1794-75

The Actor Nakamura Tomijuro in the Role of Sayohime Disguised as Hanamasu, 1773

The Actor Nakamura Kumetaro I as an Oiran, ca. 1756. Creator: Torii Kiyohiro
The Actor Nakamura Kumetaro I as an Oiran, ca. 1756

Scene from a Shosa Act, ca. 1788. Creator: Torii Kiyonaga
Scene from a Shosa Act, ca. 1788

Onoe Matsusuke I as an Oiran Stands at the Left, Talking to Nakamura Nakazo I as a Samurai, ca. 1788

The Actor Segawa Tomisaburo II as the Otomos Maid Wakakusa, Actually Prince Korehito, 1794-75

The Fourth Imai Hanshiro in the Role O Hatsu in "Sakaicho Soga Nendaiki", 2nd m
The Fourth Imai Hanshiro in the Role O Hatsu in " Sakaicho Soga Nendaiki", 2nd month, 1771

The Actor Iwai Hanshiro as a Courtesan Reading a Love Letter while Mounted on a Black Ox, ca. 1763

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"Exploring the Art of Female Impersonation in Japanese Kabuki Theatre" In the vibrant world of Japanese Kabuki theatre, female impersonators have long captivated audiences with their extraordinary talent and captivating performances. These skilled actors, known as onnagata, masterfully transform themselves into women both in appearance and mannerisms, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that blurs the lines between reality and illusion. One such iconic portrayal is Ichikawa Danjuro VII as Konoshita Tokichi. With meticulous attention to detail, he embodies the essence of femininity through graceful movements and delicate gestures. Nakamura Daikichi joins him on stage as his wife, seamlessly blending their energies to create a harmonious duo that brings characters to life with unparalleled authenticity. Another remarkable figure in this realm is Iwai Han. Renowned for her portrayal of Reizei in "Ima-o-sakari Suehiro Genji, " she enchants spectators with her ethereal beauty and emotional depth. The Second Segawa Kikunojo also leaves an indelible mark as Tonase from Kanadehon Chushingura, showcasing her versatility by effortlessly transitioning from one role to another. The artistry captured by Ippitsusai Buncho's creations further exemplifies the allure of these performers. From Onoe Kikugoro's embodiment of Tonase to Nakamura Kiyozo's enigmatic presence on stage, each portrait encapsulates the dedication and skill required for successful female impersonation. Ishikawa Toyonobu's works offer glimpses into historical moments within this art form. Segawa Kikunojo II shines brightly as a young girl while Ichikawa Monnosuke II exudes elegance portraying a woman wearing a red cape. These images serve as testaments to Toyonobu's ability to immortalize these fleeting moments forever.