This striking hand-painted watercolor is an original and distinct artwork from Japan, dating to the Late Taisho to Early Showa period (1920–1940). Measuring 21 inches by 11 inches (53 cm x 28 cm), this piece was specifically crafted by a Japanese artist to serve as a technical blueprint for yuzen resist-dye work on a silk kimono. The artwork remains in very good condition and showcases a minimalist, high-contrast interpretation of traditional climbing flora, reflecting the bold graphic sensibilities of the pre-war era.

The composition is set against a serene taupe-grey ground, featuring stylized, three-lobed leaves that appear to float across the field on slender, curving vines. Two large, dominant leaves are rendered in a deep forest green, intricately detailed with white kanoko (dappled) patterns and delicate chrysanthemum-like floral crests. These are juxtaposed with crisp white leaves and smaller, purple-toned silhouettes, creating a masterful sense of shadow and layered depth. The fluid, sweeping lines of the stems connect the clusters in a rhythmic motion, a design expertly calculated to flow gracefully across the vertical seams of a finished silk garment.

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