This kinsha silk kimono presents a sophisticated geometric interpretation of traditional Japanese floral motifs, demonstrating the artistic innovation of the early Showa period. The design features delicate kiku (chrysanthemum) flowers arranged within flowing tatewaku (rising steam) patterns that create vertical, undulating bands across the dark ground.

The artistic execution combines stenciling with silk-screening techniques to achieve remarkable precision and color gradation. The chrysanthemums appear in three distinct colorways - golden yellow, soft blue-gray, and rich purple - each rendered with subtle tonal variations that give dimensional quality to the flat petals. The detail images reveal the sophisticated silk-screening process, showing how the purple chrysanthemums display nuanced color transitions from deep violet at the edges to lighter lavender toward the centers.

The overall composition reflects the influence of Art Deco design principles that were gaining popularity in Japan during this period. The geometric organization of organic motifs into rhythmic, flowing bands demonstrates the synthesis of traditional Japanese pattern-making with modernist sensibilities. The tatewaku pattern itself has ancient origins in Japanese decorative arts, often symbolizing rising steam, but here it's been stylized into a more graphic, contemporary interpretation.

The color palette - particularly the striking contrast between the deep black ground and the jewel-toned chrysanthemums - reflects both traditional Japanese aesthetic preferences for dramatic color relationships and the bold chromatic experiments of 1920s-30s international design. This piece exemplifies how Japanese textile artists of the interwar period successfully modernized classical motifs while maintaining their cultural significance and symbolic meaning.

Its measurements are 46 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 56 inches in height (117 x 142 cm).

This artwork is featured on page 186 of Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan, 1905-1960. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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