Comment -  The print is a talisman print (Hozo-e) depicting a toy dog, supposedly a flat kite, and a marionette (Kugutsu, 傀儡 ). Hozo-e prints (疱瘡絵) are talismans, amulets or pictures to prevent smallpox. Thus the name "hozo-e"  is meaning "smallpox picture". Sometimes the desriptor for 'smallpox' is translated as 'measles'. In former times the medical knowledge was not that widespread. Due to the fact, that pandemics often follow some kind of longer timecycles, and because lack of documentation, knowledge about these 'plagues' was often lost inbetween.

The depicted supposed kite is attached with it's bridle lines to the marionette. The supposed kite resembles a typical Hamamatsu kite with a long protruding central stick that gives more stability of flight.

Renowned sources desribe the supposed tool as a 'kite'. But as its connected to all extremities of the marionette doll, it might as well be a tool to control and handle the puppet. Nevertheless, the print is a fine example for a hozo-e.

The elaborate text on top of the print is not read.

Series -  none


Artist - see biography of YOSHITSUNA


Signature - Ittôsai Yoshitsuna ga (一登斎芳綱画) next to the two circular stamps, representing the double nanushi censor seals Fuku (upper) and Muramatsu (lower), dating the print to 1849.

Publisher - Tsutaya Kichizo (蔦屋吉蔵), with the Tsutakichi seal (蔦吉) of Kōei-dō (紅英堂)


Image Size - 21.4cm X 31.8cm   or  8 7/16" x 12 1/2"


Condition - single sheet; nishiki-e (cloured woodblock), red-print (aka-e); paper backed; vertical ôban (ôban tate-e);