Nakumura Shūkaku in Ichiwa Ichigon

A hand-painted replica of Tsukioka Yoshitoshi’s masterpiece Nakumura Shūkaku in Ichiwa Ichigon, meticulously crafted by professional artists to capture the true essence of the original. Each piece is created with museum-quality canvas and rare mineral pigments, carefully painted by experienced artists with delicate brushstrokes and rich, layered colors to perfectly recreate the texture of the original artwork. Unlike machine-printed reproductions, this hand-painted version brings the painting to life, infused with the artist’s emotions and skill in every stroke. Whether for personal collection or home decoration, it instantly elevates the artistic atmosphere of any space.

Nakumura Shūkaku in Ichiwa Ichigon by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi is a notable woodblock print created by the renowned Japanese artist Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839–1892). Yoshitoshi is widely recognized as one of the last great masters of the ukiyo-e genre of woodblock printing and painting. His works are celebrated for their dynamic compositions, intricate details, and emotional depth, often reflecting the turbulent times of the late Edo and early Meiji periods in Japan.

This particular print, Nakumura Shūkaku in Ichiwa Ichigon, is part of Yoshitoshi's series titled "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon" (Tsuki hyakushi), which he produced between 1885 and 1892. The series consists of 100 prints, each depicting various scenes from Japanese and Chinese history, folklore, literature, and theater, all unified by the common theme of the moon.

Nakumura Shūkaku was a famous kabuki actor, and his portrayal in this print highlights Yoshitoshi's interest in the kabuki theater, which was a popular form of entertainment during the Edo period. Kabuki actors were often depicted in ukiyo-e prints, and Yoshitoshi's work is no exception. The print captures Nakumura Shūkaku in a dramatic pose, showcasing the actor's expressive performance style and the elaborate costumes typical of kabuki theater.

The title "Ichiwa Ichigon" translates to "One Word, One Poem," suggesting a moment of profound expression or a significant statement made by the character portrayed by Nakumura Shūkaku. Yoshitoshi's attention to detail is evident in the intricate patterns of the actor's costume and the careful rendering of his facial expression, which conveys a sense of intensity and emotion.

Yoshitoshi's "One Hundred Aspects of the Moon" series is highly regarded for its artistic and cultural significance. Each print in the series not only showcases Yoshitoshi's technical skill but also reflects his deep appreciation for Japanese history and culture. The series was created during a time of great change in Japan, as the country transitioned from the feudal Edo period to the modern Meiji era. This period of transformation is often reflected in Yoshitoshi's work, which blends traditional themes with contemporary influences.

Nakumura Shūkaku in Ichiwa Ichigon is a prime example of Yoshitoshi's ability to capture the essence of his subjects while also imbuing his prints with a sense of narrative and emotion. The print is a testament to Yoshitoshi's mastery of the woodblock printing technique and his enduring legacy as one of Japan's greatest artists.

Today, Yoshitoshi's works, including Nakumura Shūkaku in Ichiwa Ichigon, are highly sought after by collectors and are featured in major museums and galleries around the world. They continue to be studied and admired for their artistic excellence and their rich portrayal of Japanese culture and history.