This elegant chirimen silk kimono presents a sophisticated seasonal composition featuring the classic combination of ume (plum) blossoms and kiku (chrysanthemums) against a rich deep blue ground. The design captures the ethereal beauty of a winter garden, with graceful plum branches laden with snow extending across the garment in flowing, naturalistic arrangements.

The painted motifs demonstrate exceptional artistry, with the white and pale pink plum blossoms rendered in delicate detail against the darker branches. The chrysanthemums appear in subtle tones that complement the overall color palette, creating layers of visual interest. The snow effect on the branches adds a poetic quality that evokes the quiet beauty of winter landscapes so beloved in Japanese aesthetics.

Several of the detail images reveal the remarkable technical achievement of this textile - the supplementary weft thread inserts that create metallic gold accents throughout the design. These additional threads, woven into the base fabric during production, catch and reflect light to add luminous highlights that enhance the painted elements. You can see how these golden threads follow the contours of the branches and accent certain areas of the composition, creating depth and richness.

The chirimen crepe silk provides an ideal foundation for this design, as its slightly textured surface adds subtle visual interest while allowing the painted motifs to stand out clearly. The crepe's characteristic irregular texture also contributes to the overall organic feeling of the composition.

This combination of seasonal motifs - plum blossoms representing early spring hope and chrysanthemums symbolizing autumn longevity - creates a design that celebrates the cyclical nature of seasons while showcasing the technical mastery of Japanese textile arts through both painting and weaving techniques.

Adorned with three embroidered mon (family crests), signaling its semi-formal nature, it features a hand-spun and woven silk doura (inner upper lining). There are slight stains on the upper left front and inner lining. Its dimensions measure around 50 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 61 inches in height, or approximately 127 centimeters by 155 centimeters.