Comment - Kabuki scene of a yakko kite ("yakko-dako", "奴凧") or man kite. Yakko were low-ranking servants or footmen attached to high-ranking samurai. They traditionally wore a coat with a distinctive square crest on it, not associated with any particular family. The yakko shown here has risen into the sky high above a flock of four black swallows, the outstretched sleeves of his coat acting as wings. Two blue sashes flutter from his toes, and he looks down with a concerned expression. He is tied to a black rope or stick behind his back, showing a real kabuki scene with the yakko tied to the upper stage to give an impression of an authentic flight. The snow-covered peak of Mt. Fuji can be seen at lower right. A bold design with lovely bokashi shading in the sky.


Series - ~


Artist - see Biography


Signature - "Kunisato-ga" ("国郷画", "painted by Kunisato") in red oval Otoshidama ring on lower left


Publisher - Kiya Sōjirō (木屋宗次郎)  Kōboku-dō publishers (糸木堂)


Image Size - 25.4 X  33.7cm   (10" x 13 1/4") (+ margins)


Condition - single sheet; nishiki-e (cloured woodblock); Vertical ôban (ôban tate-e);