This silk miyamairi kimono showcases a rare theme depicting Kashiwade no Hanoshi fighting a tiger. The scene, created through yuzen and freehand painting, portrays the legendary 6th-century Japanese warrior engaged in a fierce battle with the tiger. The kimono measures 33 inches (84 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 40 inches (102 cm) in height. Notably, the old family crests (mon) were covered up by applique crests during the latter half of the 20th century. This narrative of bravery and honor has been depicted in various woodblock prints, including works by the renowned artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi, during the period from 1830 to 1850.

This artwork is featured on pages 268-271 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

The piece is also featured on page 93 of the summer 2018 edition of HALI magazine.

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