Kite Flying 1756 - 1776

Suzuki Harunobu created this woodblock print, "Kite Flying," around 1766. The composition arranges figures in a seemingly casual manner, yet it is carefully structured. The pale yellow background flattens the space, pushing the figures forward, while the winding stream adds a sense of depth. Harunobu's use of color is subtle. Soft, muted tones create harmony, with each figure distinguished by their attire, yet united by the overall palette. The lines are delicate, defining forms without harshness, contributing to the print's graceful atmosphere. The kite itself is more than just a playful object. It represents aspirations and perhaps the transient nature of beauty and pleasure. The figures' arrangement and interaction suggest a narrative, inviting us to consider relationships between people, social class and the cultural values placed on leisure. The overall aesthetic aligns with the Ukiyo-e tradition, reflecting contemporary life and customs but interpreted through Harunobu's refined lens. His structural organization and refined color palette invites us to reflect on how each element contributes to the print's aesthetic and cultural significance.