This sophisticated hand-painted artwork is an original and unique creation from Japan, dating to the Mid-Showa period (1950–1970). Measuring 12 inches by 21 inches (30 cm x 53 cm), this distinctive piece was skillfully crafted on relatively thick paper by a seasoned artisan from Kyoto’s renowned Nishijin district. It served as a high-fidelity foundational blueprint or technical prototype for the intricate woven patterns of an obi, the traditional sash worn with a kimono. The artwork remains in very good condition, showcasing a dynamic "patchwork" or yosegi aesthetic that blends traditional motifs with sharp, mid-century modern geometry.
The composition is set against a deep, matte black ground, which provides a bold contrast for a series of fragmented, overlapping panels. These panels feature a diverse array of patterns, including blue and gold diamond-checkered fields, scalloped lace-like borders filled with floral scrolls, and dense, golden botanical medallions. The artist has utilized shimmering metallic-toned paints and precise, ink-black linework to define the intricate floral details and the sharp, angular intersections of the various panels. This rhythmic arrangement of disparate textures and shapes creates a sense of profound visual depth, perfectly designed to remain engaging as the obi is wrapped and knotted.