Good condition overall with damage along the edges of the print consistent with age. The printed lines remain sharp and the ink colors vivid. Presented in a newer A3 frame for preservation and display.
This Meiji-period ukiyo-e woodblock print by Utagawa Kunisada III depicts the famous Kabuki actor Nakamura Shikan in the role of Soga no Gorō, or a closely related heroic warrior character from the Soga brothers tradition.
The actor is shown in dramatic costume with the prominent butterfly crest (chō-mon) visible on the sleeve of his black kimono, emphasizing the theatrical identity and stage presence associated with Kabuki actor portraiture of the late 19th century.
The lower-right signature reads Kōchōrō Gototei hitsu (香朝楼五渡亭筆), accompanied by the red Utagawa Toshidama seal beneath it, marking the work as part of the Utagawa school tradition.
Created circa 1889–1892, the print reflects the bold compositions and expressive theatrical imagery that remained highly popular during the Meiji era, when actor prints continued to serve as both entertainment and celebrity portraiture.
A visually strong example of late Meiji Kabuki ukiyo-e, suitable for collectors of actor prints, theater history, and Japanese woodblock art.
