This masterful hand-painted watercolor is an original and distinctive artwork from Japan, dating to the Late Taisho to Early Showa period (1920–1940). Measuring 16 inches by 12 inches (41 cm x 30 cm), this piece was meticulously crafted for the purpose of transposing its design to yūzen resist-dye work on a silk kimono. The artwork remains in very good condition, showcasing a bold and graphic "Taisho Roman" aesthetic that revitalizes classical auspicious motifs with a modern sense of scale and color.
The composition is dominated by large, stylized pine branches (matsu) rendered in a deep, saturated forest green. The pine needles are depicted with sharp, white calligraphic linework, creating a sense of crystalline texture against the cream-colored ground. Overlaid upon the greenery are two large, circular medallions outlined in gold-toned pigment. One medallion contains a rhythmic arrangement of multi-colored waves (seigaiha) and swirling water motifs in shades of crimson, teal, and ochre, while the other features a patterned "shippo" (seven treasures) geometric design. These circular vignettes act as "windows" into traditional decorative worlds, providing a sophisticated contrast to the bold, organic form of the pine.