This listing is for a full length nobori - a vintage Japanese banner or flag that would be flown outside the home on Boy's Day (May 5th), possibly along with a fish-shaped banner for each of the children in the home.

The imagery is of three samurai in bright, colorful armor. All have fierce expressions and the one at the bottom is on horseback. Bold and bright colors - red, blue, black, green, orange, and gold. Detailed armor and faces - look closely to see the brushstrokes of each element. We especially like the facial hair!

There is a wood sorrel family crest at the top and kanji at the bottom.

Tab/loops sewn all along the one side of the flag and across the top would hold the flat hung vertically.

This banner is vintage - likely from the 1970s or 1980s - and still has vibrant colors and is in excellent condition. These banners are hand painted to appear the same on back and front.

A heavy cotton - not quite as heavy as denim or canvas, but quite sturdy.

Creating these banners is quite a process - see video below for how it is done these days and note the difference in color and design between this banner and more contemporary ones.