Comment - The woodblock "Dragon Kite" shows typical "Kanji kite" ("ji tako", "字凧"). The kite is an Edo Kaku, the small brother of an Edo Kite. The kite carries a large kanji character for "dragon"  ("龍", Ryū), very often to be seen on Japanese kites. The edo kaku is laying supine, with it's front upwards. The simple bridle line lays loose on the kite. The title and red seal (upper right) are not read.

The hand painted kite is backed with a thin cardboard, sprinkled with mica, and is a typical "shikishi". "Shikishi" ("色紙" literally cloured paper)  describes an art board or signature board in English. These cardboard pictures were only available in Japan. They are very difficult to find and highly collectible. They were often used to attract the attention of objects arranged in front of them. These boards were like mini replicas of sign boards that are used in Japan for autographs or else. Today, 'shikishi art bords' are highly appreciated in modern "manga culture".

Series - none


Artist -  unknown


Signature - red seal (unread)


Publisher - unknown


Image Size - 24.1 X 26.9 cm (9 1/2" x 10 3/8") + margins as shown


Condition - single sheet; hand painted; shikishi on thin cardboard (mica)