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This kimono showcases an intricate shibori resist-dyeing program executed across the entire surface of rinzu silk, creating a sophisticated interplay between the lustrous figured weave and the organic, hand-crafted resist patterns. The design centers on paulownia (kiri) motifs - the imperial flower that symbolizes nobility, honor, and virtue - rendered through various shibori binding techniques that create both large leaf forms and smaller geometric elements scattered across the rich burgundy ground.
The composition demonstrates the Taisho period's embrace of naturalistic themes filtered through traditional craft techniques, with what appears to be a stylized waterfall or cascade motif flowing through the design. This water element, suggested through the flowing arrangement of shibori dots and patterns, creates a sense of movement that transforms the static garment surface into a dynamic landscape. The paulownia leaves, executed in graduated tones from deep burgundy to pale cream, show the sophisticated control of resist-dyeing techniques that allowed artisans to achieve subtle color gradations within individual motifs.
The technical execution reveals extraordinary skill in coordinating multiple processes - the underlying rinzu weave creates a subtle geometric foundation, while the shibori work ranges from large-scale leaf forms requiring complex binding techniques to tiny dots that may have been created using small stones or seeds as resist elements. The strategic placement of embroidery highlights and gold metallic thread outlining demonstrates the period's taste for luxurious surface enrichment, while the overall composition reflects the Japanese aesthetic principle of finding beauty in the controlled accident - the slight irregularities inherent in hand-resist techniques that give life and movement to the design.
It measures 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 61 inches (155 cm) in height.
The intricate shibori tie-dye technique, especially in rendering such detailed motifs, would have demanded several months of dedicated work by skilled designers and craftspeople. This artistic marvel undoubtedly represents a considerable investment, reflecting the expertise, time, and craftsmanship involved in its creation.