Title : Sawamura Söjürö and Sanjö Kantarö

Artist : Okumura Masanobu

Date : c. 1721

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : Two actors, Sawamura Söjurö (kneeling and playing a hand drum) and Sanjö Kantarö are depicted in a love scene from a Kabuki production in the first lunar month of 1724. This is thought to be a New Year's play since the early spring flowers in the bamboo vase (plum and camellia) located behind these two figures are common seasonal motifs for spring. Masanobu prints usually have an inscription that states: “Original prints produced by Okumura Masanobu.” His company's address was also listed. This inscription demonstrates that the artist (or his publisher) clearly recognized the importance of advertising. (from Original Intent exhibition 11/21/06-)

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