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"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
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"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
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"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Torii Kiyotada VII was a prominent Japanese artist of the Torii school, renowned for his contributions to kabuki theater imagery. Active during the Meiji period, he upheld a family tradition of producing dynamic actor portraits that bridged the worlds of performance and popular print culture.
His work is rooted in the ukiyo-e tradition, where kabuki actors became celebrated icons for art collectors. For more Japanese-themed wall art, explore our oriental collection.
The Artwork
Created in 1893, this design depicts the famed actor Ichikawa Danjuro IX portraying the ghost of Kagekiyo, a legendary figure from Japanese warrior tales and kabuki drama. The print captures a moment of theatrical intensity, reflecting the enduring appeal of kabuki heroes and their transformation into cultural symbols during the Meiji era.
Such prints served as both cherished memorabilia for fans and effective promotion for the theater, allowing audiences to celebrate their favorite actors and roles beyond the stage. As a vintage poster, it offers a glimpse into the vibrant celebrity culture and visual storytelling of late 19th-century Japan.
Style & Characteristics
The composition features a single striking figure, posed in a dramatic stance characteristic of kabuki performance. Strong black outlines define the form, while bold areas of red, yellow, blue, green, and white accentuate the elaborate costume and expressive face.
The use of flat color fields and crisp patterns ensures the image remains visually impactful, even from a distance. The mood is intense and theatrical, making this poster a compelling addition to any art collection. For more striking formats, see our vertical posters and black tone artworks.
In Interior Design
This kabuki poster makes a bold statement in living rooms, hallways, or studies, especially within modern, Japandi, or eclectic interiors. Its vivid palette can be echoed with accents like red ceramics, indigo textiles, or black lacquer frames, or allowed to stand out against a neutral backdrop.
Its dramatic presence brings a sense of energy and cultural depth to contemporary spaces, offering a unique focal point that bridges tradition and modern design.