This exquisite hand-painted artwork is an original hinagata drawing from Japan, dating to the Meiji period (1868–1912). Originating from Shizuoka prefecture, this piece was meticulously crafted on traditional Japanese washi paper to serve as a technical dyeing sample for kimono silk dyers. Measuring approximately 10 inches by 15 inches (25 cm x 38 cm), the drawing remains in excellent condition and showcases the remarkable versatility and observational skill of Meiji-era textile artists.

The composition is a diverse avian study, featuring five distinct bird species in various active and resting poses. In the upper left, a long-eared owl sits perched on a coniferous branch; to its right, a duck swims through marshy reeds. The right side of the page is dominated by dynamic sketches of a swallow and a pigeon in mid-flight, their wings spread to reveal detailed feather structures and soft color washes. The lower left features a small songbird descending toward flowering branches. Each figure is rendered with fine ink outlines and delicate pigments, intended to provide artisans with clear references for both the form and the subtle shading required for high-quality silk production.

‍