/internal/media/dispatcher/929703/resize%25253Aformat%25253DthumbnailChildren in Costume Dancing and Flying Kites: clockwise from top, Lion Dancer, Manzai Dancer, Chinese Boy, Baby Tenderabout 1840–41 (Tenpô 11–12)Utagawa KuniyoshiYamamotoya Heikichi (Eikyūdō)Tanzaku; 31.1 x 11.4 cm (12 1/4 x 4 1/2 in.)Woodblock print (nishiki-e); ink and color on paperWilliam Sturgis Bigelow Collection11.367070The actual threads passing through the hand of the girl at left were probably attached to a miniature kite in the shape of a yakko (footman), printed on a separate piece of paper and attached to the top of the print as suggested by the shadow shape.
Possibly a reference to a kabuki play, as these are the kinds of roles often seen in quick-change dance plays.Prints31.100000000046138101