May, 1976 – Boys’ Day Festival: Carp Windsocks
Artist
Nishijima, Takeshi
(Japanese, 1929–2003)
Date1975
Mediumhand stencil-dyed print, ink and color on handmade kozo paper
ClassificationsPrints
Credit LineGift from the Judith and Paul A. Falcigno Collection
Object number2010.193.6
DescriptionOn May 5, the Japanese celebrate Boys’ Day by hanging streamers and colorful fish-shaped windsocks which catch the breeze. Derived from Chinese tradition, the carp symbolize the wish for perseverance and success in later life. Made of paper or cloth, a black carp design represents the father while a red one is for the mother; children are represented with other colors. Boys’ Day has in recent years evolved into Childrens’ Day.Label TextOn May 5, the Japanese celebrate Boys’ Day by hanging streamers and colorful fish-shaped windsocks which catch the breeze. Derived from Chinese tradition, the carp symbolize the wish for perseverance and success in later life. Made of paper or cloth, a black carp design represents the father while a red one is for the mother; children are represented with other colors. Boys’ Day has in recent years evolved into Childrens’ Day.ProvenancePaul A. Falcigno and Judy Mansfield, Hamden, CT
On View
Not on view
