This striking kimono displays a masterful manipulation of the traditional shima (stripe) pattern, transforming what could have been a simple linear design into a dynamic visual experience. The garment features a bold color palette of black, white, and red stripes that are intentionally disrupted and fragmented across the surface.

The most captivating aspect of this design is how the stripes appear to shift and break, creating zigzag and chevron-like patterns that seem to move across the fabric. This effect is achieved through careful planning of the stripe placement, where the vertical lines are deliberately offset or interrupted, causing the eye to perceive movement and rhythm within what is essentially a geometric pattern.

The shima omeshi (striped crepe) silk provides an ideal foundation for this design, as the crepe texture adds subtle surface interest that complements the bold graphic elements. The interplay between the three colors creates varying levels of contrast - the stark black and white providing maximum impact, while the red stripes serve as transitional elements that soften the overall effect.

An additional 5.5-inch section at the upper mid-back is particularly intriguing from a construction standpoint. This suggests the kimono was specifically designed with this extra panel to enhance the pattern's flow or to accommodate the complex stripe alignment needed to achieve the broken effect. Such modifications demonstrate the sophisticated understanding of how pattern placement affects the overall visual impact when the garment is worn.

It measures approximately 51 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 62 inches in height, or about 130 centimeters by 157 centimeters.

This artwork is featured on page 332 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 45 of the July-August 2019 edition of Arts of Asia.

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