Rare Japanese Antique Traditional Kabuki Theater Sign. Hand painted on wood this is from the play "Kagekiyo". the sign would of been hung in front of the Theater, so people would know what play would be presented. Measures 20"x1"x31". Weight 5 pds. PROVENANCE: A Tokyo, Japan / Charleston SC Private Estate. When it originated, kabuki used to be acted only by women, and was popular mainly among common people. Later during the Edo Period, a restriction was placed by the Tokugawa Shogunate forbidding women from participating; to the present day it is performed exclusively by men. Several male kabuki actors are therefore specialists in playing female roles (onnagata).

good, some age appropriate wear