Nishimura Shigenobu
Nishimura Shigenobu was an artist active during the long period spanning 1615 to 1737, known primarily for his production of graphic works. Documented works attributed to the artist confirm his engagement with various media: fourteen prints and one painting are represented in museum collections. The existence of Nishimura Shigenobu paintings, though rare in preservation, confirms his activity beyond the print medium.
The artist’s work is held in major North American collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Art Institute of Chicago, establishing the historic and artistic credibility of his output.
Nishimura Shigenobu prints often addressed popular cultural themes associated with the ukiyo-e genre, focusing on portraiture and figures of renown. Notable works preserved in these collections include the actor depiction The Actor Ichikawa Danjuro II, 1688–1758, as well as several pieces focusing on female figures and narratives, such as Ono no Komachi, from A Set of Three Beauties (Bijin sanpukutsui), The House of Umegawa, Style of the Dancer, and The Brine Maiden Matsukaze.
The surviving body of work, comprising high-quality prints and the rare painting, ensures the preservation of the artist’s legacy. Historically significant works such as these are frequently placed in the public domain, allowing for the widespread study and reproduction of museum-quality artwork.
