This exquisite miyamairi kimono was created for one of life's most sacred occasions—the Shinto blessing of a newborn son. The garment employs a sophisticated monochromatic palette that moves from deep charcoal black in the upper portion to luminous cream and pale gray tones in the lower section, creating a dramatic visual transition that frames the central motif. The jumping carp (koi) serves as the focal point of this ceremonial design, rendered with extraordinary technical virtuosity through multiple complementary techniques that demonstrate the master craftsman's complete command of textile arts.

The carp itself embodies powerful symbolism in Japanese culture, representing perseverance, strength, and the ability to overcome obstacles—qualities parents would wish to invoke for their male child. According to legend, a carp that successfully swims upstream and leaps over the Dragon Gate waterfall transforms into a dragon, making this motif particularly auspicious for a boy's blessing ceremony. The artistic execution combines sumi-e ink painting traditions with textile arts, using bokashi shading techniques to create subtle gradations in the fish's scales and body, while delicate reed grasses rendered in fine linear detail frame the aquatic scene. Metallic couching adds luminous highlights that catch light as the garment moves, enhancing the sense of the carp's dynamic motion as it breaks through the water's surface.

The underlying silk damask fabric features an interlocking diamond pattern that creates a subtle reflective quality, adding depth and richness to the overall composition without competing with the painted design. This technical achievement—combining damask weaving, painting, embroidery, and metallic work—represents the collaborative efforts of multiple specialized artisans working in harmony to create a garment worthy of such a momentous spiritual occasion.

It exhibits some slight smudging and a few tiny inconspicuous holes. It measures 32 inches (81 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 37 inches (94 cm) in height.

‍