Kikunojo V was the son of the actor Segawa Rosaburo, who was a follower of Segawa Kikunojo III (1751-1810). Joining the Kikunojo household, he made his debut with the name Segawa Tamon I, and became Kikunojo V in 1815 at the age of thirteen. That year he also became chief female impersonator (tate onnagata) at the Kawarazaki theatre. He was a popular, talented and versatile actor, and also wrote several books. He died young at the age of 30.
Organised for Japan 2001
The Fitzwilliam Museum is especially grateful to John Carpenter, Tim Clark, Paul M. Griffith, Hideyuki Iwata and Ellis Tinios for their generous help during the preparation of this exhibition.
Funded by Japan 2001