September 11 – October 31, 2025
Drama Queens & Kabuki Kings: Stars of Edo & Osaka
Scholten Japanese Art
In Person Viewing:
145 West 58th Street, suite 6D
New York, NY 10019
Online Viewing:
https://www.scholten-japanese-art.com/current.php
For the duration of Asia Week, September 11-19, the gallery exhibition will be open with appointments appreciated. Otherwise by appointment through October 31st.
This exhibition includes approximately fifty 19th century woodblock prints and drawings. The exhibition focuses on portraits of stars and superstars of the kabuki world, including several who expanded their preeminence on the stage by going on tour — traveling back and forth to the major metropolitan arenas of Edo, Osaka and Kyoto, and other regional theaters. These kabuki luminaries enjoyed the adoration of their loyal audience who formed fan clubs that frequently and strategically fanned the flames of professional rivalries between actors and their clans, with occasional overzealous fandom that resulted in fiery confrontations and even street fights.
Featured artists include: Gigado Ashiyuki, Keisai Eisen, Shunbaisai Hokuei, Shunshosai Hokuju, Shunkosai Hokushu, Gosotei Hirosada, Kunishige, Utagawa Kunisada, Ittosai Masunobu, Urakusai Nagahide, Utagawa Nobukatsu, Gochotei Sadamasu I, Hasegawa Sadanobu, Ryusai Shigeharu, Kitagawa Toyohide, Utagawa Toyokuni I, Toyokawa Yoshikuni, and Utagawa Yoshitaki
