This intricate hand-painted watercolor is an original and distinctive artwork from Japan, dating to the Late Taisho to Early Showa period (1920–1940). Measuring 23 inches by 16 inches (58 cm x 41 cm), this piece was meticulously created to serve as a high-fidelity template for yūzen resist-dye work on a silk kimono. The artwork remains in very good condition and demonstrates a highly specialized "pointillist" stippling technique, where complex forms are built entirely from minute, controlled dots of pigment to mimic the texture of fine embroidery or tie-dye.
The composition is set against a deep black ground and features two vertical columns of overlapping circular medallions. Each medallion is outlined with a halo of golden-orange stippling and contains a unique, high-contrast scene. Several medallions showcase naturalistic floral studies of lilies and chrysanthemums in muted teal, violet, and peach tones, while others feature elegant birds with decorative, patterned plumage. The background areas between the primary roundels are punctuated by delicate floral sprays and falling leaves, creating a dense, jewel-like surface that reflects the playful and romantic "Taisho Roman" aesthetic.