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This kurotomesode features an enchanting composition of origami paper cranes (orizuru) that appear to dance across the garment's lower portion against a deep black silk ground. The cranes are rendered with extraordinary technical sophistication, each one meticulously decorated with miniature patterns that include floral motifs, geometric designs, and traditional Japanese decorative elements executed in yuzen-painting technique. The artist has created a remarkable trompe-l'oeil effect where these folded paper birds seem to float through space, connected by delicate golden threads that weave between them in graceful curves, suggesting both movement and the invisible connections that bind all things together.
The symbolic resonance of the crane motif in Japanese culture is profound—these birds represent longevity, good fortune, and fidelity, making them particularly appropriate for formal women's attire. The tradition of folding a thousand paper cranes (senbazuru) as a prayer for peace, healing, or the fulfillment of wishes adds layers of spiritual meaning to this design. The artistic execution demonstrates influences from both traditional Rinpa school aesthetics in its bold compositional arrangement and emerging modern design sensibilities of the Taisho period, particularly in the playful yet sophisticated treatment of everyday objects transformed into high art. The detail images reveal the masterful use of surihaku gold-foil technique to outline and accent the cranes' forms, while the varied decorative patterns within each crane—ranging from cherry blossoms to abstract geometric motifs—create a rich tapestry of visual interest that rewards close examination. This garment brilliantly captures the Japanese aesthetic principle of finding profound beauty in simple, humble materials elevated through exceptional craftsmanship and artistic vision.
It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, standing at a height of 62 inches (157 cm).