Katsukawa Shunshō

Katsukawa Shunshō (1726–1793) was a renowned Japanese artist and printmaker of the Edo period, famous for his role in developing ukiyo-e—a genre of woodblock prints depicting scenes of kabuki actors, landscapes, and beautiful women. As a leading figure of the Katsukawa school, he specialized in realistic actor portraits that emphasized expressive detail and dynamic composition. Shunshō's work helped elevate actor prints into a distinct art form, influencing subsequent generations of artists. His innovative techniques and vibrant images contributed significantly to the popularity and evolution of ukiyo-e imagery during Japan’s Edo era.