Japanese vintage Taisho to Showa period black formal silk child's kimono hand dyed and painted with a horizontal scene illustrating the story of the children’s folk hero Kintoki (also known as Kintaro, or the “Golden Boy”) refereeing a sumo wrestling match between a rabbit and a monkey all set against a celadon background permeated with auspicious symbols. Raised by a Yama-uba (mountain spirit) in the mountains, Kintaro developed superhuman strength and had the ability to communicate with wild animals. He is associated with Boy’s Day in the hope that young boys will grow up to be brave and strong. The white lining of this kimono is covered in children’s toys, strung together with blue string. Five white “mon” (family crests) are along the top. Early 20th century. Measures about 35 1/4” long (excluding collar) by about 32 1/2” across (sleeve tip to sleeve tip). This kimono appears to have never been worn. It is in very good overall condition with metallic highlights. From the estate of a World War II veteran in Tucson, Arizona. It has been stored safely away for decades in an air-tight trunk.