This celebratory hand-painted watercolor is an original and distinct artwork from Japan, dating to the Late Taisho to Early Showa period (1920–1940). Measuring 11 inches by 16 inches (28 cm x 41 cm), this piece was specifically crafted by a Japanese artist to serve as a high-fidelity blueprint for yuzen resist-dye work on a silk kimono. The artwork remains in very good condition, showcasing the festive imagery and bold color palettes typical of New Year's themed textile designs from the pre-war era.

The composition is set against a vibrant, saturated vermilion-red ground, featuring a large, stylized hagoita (traditional wooden paddle) as its central focus. The paddle is exquisitely decorated with internal motifs, including purple and yellow cloud patterns, delicate cherry blossoms, and a fine kanoko (dappled) tie-dye texture. Surrounding the paddle are whimsical strings of mayudama—small, spherical rice cakes (mochi) in shades of white, lavender, and pale yellow—which appear to float across the field on slender, branch-like lines. Large, elegant white and pink floral fans and lilies are interspersed throughout the layout, while a broad band of geometric lattice work grounds the festive scene.

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