This silk kimono is a vibrant example of early to mid-20th-century textile art, utilizing the omeshi technique to create a highly textured and durable fabric. The garment is defined by a bold, saturated rust-red ground, which is overlaid with a complex lattice of large-scale geometric and celestial motifs. Central to the design are jagged, starburst-like shapes that intersect with linear, cross-hatched elements, creating a dynamic sense of movement and "shimmer". Within these larger shapes, smaller colorful details in blue and yellow suggest traditional fans or abstract floral clusters, providing a playful contrast to the sharp, modern geometry.
Historically, omeshi silk was prized for its crisp hand and resistance to wrinkling, often favored for sophisticated daily wear or semi-formal occasions during the Taisho and early Showa eras. The pattern is a masterful reimagining of the asanoha (hemp leaf) motif, abstracted here into a larger, more avant-garde composition that reflects the influence of Art Deco and modernism on Japanese aesthetics. The starburst shapes symbolize vitality and growth, while the rich red palette evokes energy and protection. This piece stands as a testament to the era's innovative spirit, where traditional weaving techniques were pushed to their limits to create bold, graphic statements.
It measures 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at a height of 58 inches (147 cm).