MUSASHIBÔ BENKEI

"Saitô Musashibô Benkei (1155~1189) was a historic monk warrior in feudal Japan of great strength and a legendary figure. For centuries the character of Benkei has been subject to Kabuki and plays and to numerous depictions on Japanese art objects. He is the epitome of a guy strong like a grizzly bear, but with a big heart and loyal to his lord - still one of the greatest virtues in Japanese society." (from the Artelino website [more details])

Ichikawa Ebizô V playing the role of Benkei in the dance-drama "Kanjinchô" in a print made by Utagawa Toyokuni III (1852) Nakamura Shikan II playing the role of Musashibô Benkei in a print made by Utagawa Kunisada I
Arashi Kichisaburô III playing the role of Musashibô Benkei in a print made by Utagawa Toyokuni III (1852)

Kawarasaki Gonjûrô I playing the role of Benkei in the drama "Gosho Zakura Horikawa no Youchi", which was staged in the 3rd lunar month of 1863 at the Nakamuraza (print made by Utagawa Yoshiiku)

 
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