This elegant hand-painted watercolor is an original and distinctive artwork from Japan, dating to the Late Taisho to Early Showa period (1920–1940). Measuring 32 inches by 11 inches (81 cm x 28 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 sophisticated monochromatic-inspired palette that reflects the refined textile trends of the early 20th century.

The composition features a dense, rhythmic arrangement of overflowing peonies (botan) and curling vines that span the entire vertical length of the paper. The flowers and foliage are rendered in a deep, saturated teal blue, providing a bold contrast against a light grey background punctuated by fine, regular stippling. This stippled ground mimics the appearance of komon (fine pattern) dyeing or the delicate texture of silk crepe. Each peony blossom is detailed with fine, white resist-style linework to define the layers of petals, a hallmark of the yūzen technique that allows for sharp clarity within complex botanical forms.

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