Vintage Japanese Kabuki Kite (Tako), Sukeroku Portrait, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-745-4

Vintage Japanese Kabuki Kite (Tako), Sukeroku Portrait, Late Showa 1966-1989 | SKU: 26M-745-4

A boldly graphic vintage Japanese kite bearing the iconic face of Sukeroku -- one of kabuki theatre's most celebrated heroes -- rendered in vivid kumadori stage makeup.

A tako is a traditional Japanese kite, historically flown during the New Year season as a symbol of good fortune and high-spirited celebration. This large rectangular tako depicts the kabuki hero Sukeroku in full theatrical regalia -- his face rendered in the dramatic red-and-white kumadori makeup style that signals a heroic aragoto role, framed by a sweeping purple braided wig and set against a bold crimson background. A grey-and-yellow janome (snake-eye) umbrella -- Sukeroku's signature prop -- occupies the upper corner, and a green character label reading "Sukeroku" identifies the subject without ambiguity. The reverse reveals a sturdy bamboo framework of spine and cross-spars tied at their intersections, the classic engineering of a handcrafted Japanese kite. The print style and construction are consistent with quality Showa-era festival production, making this a vivid example of vintage Japanese folk art and popular culture in one object.

In a modern home, this oversized tako makes a spectacular statement piece that goes well beyond its flying origins. Hung flat against a wall, it functions as a bold living room accent or entryway focal point in the spirit of Japandi style or maximalist Japanese decor. Its graphic intensity -- rich reds, deep charcoal, electric blue, and lavender -- suits a gallery wall, a home studio, or a media room that calls for genuine visual drama. For collectors of Japanese vintage folk craft, kabuki memorabilia, or vintage Japanese pop art, it is a rare find that doubles as a unique housewarming gift or gift for Japanophiles who appreciate objects that carry both cultural depth and striking visual presence.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Paper (washi-style) face with bamboo spine and cross-spar framework; white string bridle
• Use: New Year festival kite flying; decorative display of kabuki imagery
• Modern Use: Statement wall art for living room or entryway; gallery-wall centerpiece; collector's display piece for kabuki or Japanese folk art enthusiasts
• Features: Large rectangular format; full-face Sukeroku kabuki actor portrait in kumadori makeup; purple braided wig; janome umbrella motif in upper corner; green Sukeroku character label; bamboo multi-spar framework on reverse; white string bridle intact; some light age toning visible on paper face
• Dimensions: 14 1/2"W x 20"H
• Condition: Good -- light age toning to paper surface in places; bamboo frame and bridle strings intact; print colors remain vivid.

A striking piece of vintage Japanese folk art and kabuki culture -- bold enough to command any wall and rare enough to delight any serious collector.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.