"Pictorial Banners in the Edo Era - Banners & Streamers (Nobori)" Exhibition
Japan Folk-Craft Museum
This event has ended.
Banners (Nobori) are universally popular, but there is no other country that uses them as extensively as Japan. Even today, banners are used for business advertisements, show business and festivals at temples and shrines. Iris banners with carp streamers are used for the Boy's Day (now Children's Day) Festival on the fifth of May.
The charm of the pictorial banners lies in their bold composition of vigorous strokes and strong colors. But this is merely the beginning: appreciation of the eye catching banner is enhanced if one understands its historical background or the meaning behind the painted pictures.
[Image: Detail of Edo Period banner]
Media
Schedule
From 2007-04-03 To 2007-06-24
Reviews
Banners for the boys
By Yoko Haruhara
Special to The Japan Times
The subject matter of Boys' Day banners varied widely, from portrayals of the heroes of old to tales of success in battle and stories of loyalty and friendship. Folk heroes had broad appeal as brave figures to emulate. Among the most striking banners in the exhibition is a depiction of Kintaro (Golden Boy) a folk hero known for his invincibility.
Banners for the boys
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