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This mid-20th century chirimen silk kimono displays a sophisticated interpretation of sarasa-style patterning that bridges traditional Japanese textile arts with international decorative influences. The intricate design features flowing paisley motifs, scrolling foliate patterns, and organic curvilinear forms rendered in warm rust and orange tones against a deep brown ground. The paisley elements, with their characteristic teardrop shapes and internal decorative details, reflect the centuries-old Persian boteh motif that traveled through trade routes to influence textile traditions across Asia. These flowing forms are interwoven with elaborate scrollwork and vine-like tendrils that create a dense, all-over pattern reminiscent of both Islamic decorative arts and the ornate chintz fabrics that were highly prized in international trade.
The gold-daubed paint highlights add a luxurious dimensionality to the design, catching light and creating visual depth that elevates the textile beyond simple printing techniques. This decorative approach evokes elements of the Arts and Crafts movement's emphasis on handcrafted details and rich surface treatments, while the overall aesthetic density and organic patterning share qualities with Art Nouveau's celebration of natural forms and flowing lines. The sarasa influence is evident in the batik-like quality of the patterns, which traditionally incorporated resist-dyeing techniques to create complex, layered designs. Symbolically, the paisley motifs carry associations with fertility, life, and eternity in their original Persian context, while the flowing botanical elements suggest growth, prosperity, and the interconnectedness of natural forms—themes that resonated across cultures and made such patterns enduringly popular in luxury textiles.
Its measurements are 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 57 inches (145 cm) in height.