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This men's silk hanjuban presents a dramatic tableau of writhing dragons rendered in dark ink against a pale golden ground. The dragons, depicted with characteristic serpentine bodies covered in detailed scales, fierce expressions, and flowing manes, spiral across the fabric in dynamic compositions that suggest movement and supernatural energy. Stylized clouds and atmospheric elements fill the spaces between the coiling forms.
The dragon motif carries profound symbolic weight in East Asian culture, representing imperial power, wisdom, strength, and the ability to bring rain and prosperity - making it particularly appropriate for men's garments of this era when Japan was asserting itself as a modern imperial power. The artistic execution reflects the influence of traditional ink painting traditions, with the printed design mimicking the bold brushwork and tonal variations characteristic of sumi-e painting techniques. This period marked a fascinating intersection between Japan's opening to Western influence and a renewed appreciation for indigenous artistic traditions, evident in how this garment maintains classical dragon iconography while employing modern textile printing methods.
It remains in very good condition, although there are slight stains on the collar and several large pinholes. It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 36 inches (91 cm) in height.