A new set of striking kabuki costumes belonging to the kabuki actor Bandō Tamasaburō V is on show in the Ashmolean’s Textile Gallery. Tamasaburō is the most popular and celebrated onnagata (male actor who performs female roles) currently on the kabuki stage.

The costumes selected reflect the wide variety of roles in this actor’s long and celebrated theatre career, from court ladies and courtesans to fairy princesses.  

You’ll see intricately crafted kimonos that showcase a range of elaborate textile techniques, including weaving, dyeing, embroidery and hand-painting. These beautiful costumes are adorned with cascading wisteria and cherry blossoms by torchlight,  golden peacock feathers and swirling dragons.