Boy's Day - from RCBz

[Marie Wintzer]

This is my favorite so far from RCBz. I love the retro atmosphere, cosy and velvety with an underlying feeling of uneasiness (cf the ghostly figure of death in the background).
The original card is picturing Boy's Day, nowadays Children's Day, celebrated May 5th. Families honor their boys on that day with all kinds of treats. Carp-like streamers made of paper or cloth are flown a bit everywhere. Taking an iris leaf hot bath (which I believe is what is happening on the photo) is also part of the tradition, because of the belief that an iris bath is a miraculous prophylactic against all kinds of sickness.
The head of the person taking the bath seems to be the one of a girl, although the legs look boyish to me. I'm not sure about the colorized clothes either, probably edited too. The other pair of legs, the sexy ones, are just perfectly placed there. The balance is really great on this card, and the montage is so subtle that it's hard to tell what is original and what is modified.
The backside of the card is very entertaining too, I hope the photo is large enough for you to enjoy the details.
Thanks RCBz!

[Marie Wintzer]

Thanks for your encouragements Jen! I really like this piece too....

[Jen Staggs]

This is an amazing piece- and your analysis helped me notice things (the deathly figure) and learn about customs I'd never known existed. Really great work on the artist's and recipient's parts!