This plate from the Collected Illustrations of Japanese Toys (Kyosen Omocha-shu) by Kawasaki Kyosen (1877-1942) shows a folk kite of the kind flown at the New Year and at boys' festivals, its face given a bold design in black and red with a large red disc and trailing tassels. Kyosen recorded the regional toys of Japan with steady attention, and the kite, both plaything and folk emblem, is among the liveliest objects in his albums.
The sheet is omocha-e, the picture of toys, drawn from life and printed by woodblock. The strong black-and-red design sits against open paper, the tassels drawn in loose calm line below, and a red seal marks the corner. The colour is flat and confident, the shapes simple enough to read instantly.
On a wall the print is bold yet uncluttered. The single graphic kite gives a room a strong, cheerful focus while the pale ground keeps it from feeling heavy. It suits a child's room, a study, or a hallway, and pairs well with pale wood and othe . . . Read More >>
This plate from the Collected Illustrations of Japanese Toys (Kyosen Omocha-shu) by Kawasaki Kyosen (1877-1942) shows a folk kite of the kind flown at the New Year and at boys' festivals, its face given a bold design in black and red with a large red disc and trailing tassels. Kyosen recorded the regional toys of Japan with steady attention, and the kite, both plaything and folk emblem, is among the liveliest objects in his albums.
The sheet is omocha-e, the picture of toys, drawn from life and printed by woodblock. The strong black-and-red design sits against open paper, the tassels drawn in loose calm line below, and a red seal marks the corner. The colour is flat and confident, the shapes simple enough to read instantly.
On a wall the print is bold yet uncluttered. The single graphic kite gives a room a strong, cheerful focus while the pale ground keeps it from feeling heavy. It suits a child's room, a study, or a hallway, and pairs well with pale wood and other folk-art prints.
Available as fine-art paper with a soft matte surface, as a framed edition behind shatter-resistant acrylic, or as satin-coated cotton canvas for a warmer, textile feel.
Frequently asked questions
What does this print show?
A Japanese folk kite with a bold black-and-red design, a large red disc, and trailing tassels, drawn from life.
When were such kites flown?
Folk kites were flown at the New Year and at boys' festivals, both as playthings and as emblems of strength and good fortune.
Where does the image come from?
From Kawasaki Kyosen's Collected Illustrations of Japanese Toys, an album of omocha-e recording the folk toys of early twentieth-century Japan.
Where does it suit best?
In a child's room, a study, or a hallway, where the single graphic kite gives a strong, cheerful focus.
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Japan historical period: Taisho 大正 (1912-1925)
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