Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III)

Depicted here is the famous Kabuki character Koshō Kichiza, who epitomizes the young samurai dandy. Wearing resplendent robes decorated with the character kichi (吉) from his name and sporting two richly ornamented swords marking his upper-class status as a samurai, the young man cuts quite the dashing figure of elegance as he holds his fan aloft. Samurai enjoyed urban diversions and often followed the latest trends in fashion, despite continuous edicts regulating their dress code and behavior. Dressed in such finery, Kichiza is likely heading to the theater or to other entertainments in the pleasure quarters.