This  meisen silk kimono features a striking optical pattern that creates a powerful sense of movement and visual dynamism. The design consists of flowing, undulating lines in black against a golden yellow background, forming swirling, wave-like motifs that seem to pulse and shift across the fabric's surface.

The pattern strongly evokes the Op Art (Optical Art) movement that would emerge prominently in the 1960s, though this kimono predates that movement by some years. The design creates optical illusions through its repetitive, high-contrast geometric patterns that appear to vibrate and create the sensation of movement when viewed. The swirling, hypnotic quality of the lines generates an almost three-dimensional effect, making the flat textile surface appear to undulate and flow.

There are also echoes of Art Deco sensibilities in the bold, geometric stylization and the dramatic contrast between the metallic gold and deep black. The pattern could also be seen as anticipating the psychedelic aesthetic that would become popular in the 1960s counterculture, with its mesmerizing, almost hallucinogenic visual effects.

It has a cotton inner "doura" lining and measures 50 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, standing at a height of 59 inches (127 x 150 cm).

This artwork is featured on page 285 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.

The piece is also featured on page 46 of the July-August 2019 edition of Arts of Asia.

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