The phrase refers to printable or digital line art depicting characters from Japanese animation situated within a hierarchical social system. These illustrations are intended to be colored by individuals, often children, providing a medium for creative expression. For example, illustrations might portray characters in positions of royalty, common citizenry, or servitude, each distinguishable by visual cues and attire, ready to be enhanced with color.
The significance of such imagery lies in its potential to engage with themes of social structure and visual representation. Coloring these illustrations can offer a passive introduction to concepts of hierarchy and status, while simultaneously fostering artistic skill development. Historically, the depiction of social strata has been prevalent in art across cultures, and this medium presents a modern iteration accessible to a wide audience.
