Natori Shunsen (1886–1960), Actor Nakamura Fukusuke V as Ohan
Color woodblock print on paper, signed, with two seals, framed.
{Sight: H 15 x W 9 3/4 inches (38.1 x 24.8 cm)}.
{Frame: H 22 1/2 x W 16 1/2 inches (57.2 x 41.9 cm)}.

This portrait depicts the kabuki actor Nakamura Fukusuke V as Ohan in Katsuragawa Renri no Shigarami, known in English as The Katsura River and the Eternal Bonds of Love. Designed in 1928, the composition captures Ohan sorrowfully holding a letter close to her chest. Her slightly raised eyes and restrained expression contrast with the elaborate hair ornaments and richly patterned kimono, conveying the emotional tension of the drama.

Fukusuke was celebrated for his onnagata roles—the portrayal of female characters by male actors—and admired for his beauty, graceful dancing, and feminine stage presence. Shunsen combines the actor’s recognizable likeness with the costume and emotion of his role, preserving a poignant moment from the performance. An impression of the same design is held by the National Gallery of Australia, Canberra, donated by Jennifer Gordon in 1998.

Reference: National Gallery of Australia, Stars of the Tokyo Stage.

Provenance: From the collection of a distinguished Japanese collector in San Jose, California, whose life included travels in Manchuria during the 1930s and incarceration in a U.S. internment camp following the attack on Pearl Harbor. These works bear witness to a precious family history and to the conviction and courage needed to preserve cultural heritage through adversity. Upon receiving the family's photographs, newspaper articles, and archival materials, Michaan's Auctions was deeply moved by their thoughtful preservation and enduring respect for history, culture, and art. We are honored to present treasures from this family collection.

For condition report and additional photos, please contact the Asian Art Department.