Artwork
Ichikawa Monnosuke II as Soga no Goro

Ichikawa Monnosuke II as Soga no Goro is a print by the Romanticist artist Katsukawa Shunshō. It dates from 1774 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.
- Accession no.
- 1921.1262
- Credit line
- Gift from J. H. Wade
About this work
Overview
This print, created around 1774, is a work by Katsukawa Shunshō, held at The Cleveland Museum of Art. It is titled Ichikawa Monnosuke II as Soga no Goro.
Subject & Meaning
The print depicts a kneeling figure, Ichikawa Monnosuke II, in the role of Soga no Goro, holding a sword and fan. His tense expression and dramatic pose convey a sense of intensity, while butterflies near his legs add a touch of movement to the scene.
Technique & Style
The artwork combines bold lines with soft colors, achieving a balance between liveliness and control. Simple shapes are used to convey emotion and movement, characteristic of Japanese theater prints from this period.
Artist & collection
Artist
Katsukawa Shunshō spent his life in Edo (now Tokyo), where the city’s teahouses and theaters buzzed with energy.


















