Kite

Kite presents the Japanese fighting kite or decorative kite as a subject in its own right — the painted surface of the kite displaying the bold imagery (demons, gods, heroes, animals) that made these objects significant decorative artifacts as well as flying toys. The kite's flat, rectangular or hexagonal surface was a natural canvas for the kind of bold, graphic imagery that characterized Mori's own work, and his rendering likely presented the kite's painted design with the same directness he brought to his theatrical and festival subjects. New Year's kite flying was one of the most visible public celebrations of the holiday season.