Comment - This woodblock print on Washi (wax paper) called Edo Chiyogami, shows a collection of twenty different kite designs, obviously Edo kites or Edo Kaku kite designs . It was produced by Isetatsu printshop, a wellknown store in Tokyo since 1864 until present. The print is probably around the 1900s. Edo Chiyogami was made with the same procedure as Ukiyo-e. On top right corner, it reads "Tako dukushi" which means "Kite, all over". On the lower left margin is the the editor's seal.

The print is a kind of small omocha-e (玩具絵). Omocha-e are encompassing a wide range of woodblocks designed for play or learning. Omocha-e became popular with both children and adults in the late Edo and Meiji eras. Subjects range from games, puzzles, and paper dolls to groups of household furnishings, articles of clothing, or wigs, along with construction toys to cut out and build. Others can be folded to create small booklets, or double-sided cards or paper dolls. Many feature wonderful detail or bright color.

The small format suggests, that this omocha-e is a quarter cut from a larger unit, an omocha-e from 1885 ( 明治18年)  that is attributed to Kuniaki, with similar and some near identical kite patterns.


Series - unknown series


Artist - unread Meiji era artist


Signature - none


Publisher - Isetatsu  (いせ辰), written and seal, lower left margin


Image Size - 18.6 X 12.0 cm   (7 2/6" x 4 6/8") + margins as shown; maybe a quarter cut from a larger unit (cf. to 'Comment');

Condition - single sheet; polychrome woodblock print;