Title : Black Bear

Artist : Utagawa Kunisada

Date : 1861

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Source : Honolulu Museum of Art
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Description : This series “Five Fabulous Actors” depicts dandy Kabuki actors of the time. Each has a different animal-related name such as Bear, Turtle, Dragon, Tiger, and Eagle, which are represented in the designs on their kimono. By the late Edo period of the mid-19th century, Edo dandyism had spread to commoners. Men of Edo city were supposed to be a little mischievous and aggressive, but with big hearts. The vivid and rough style of the kimono design captures the essence of these handsome fellows. (from "VOGUE in Japan: Edo Fashion through Japanese prints" exhibition 07/30/08-)

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