This silk kimono showcases the refined precision of katazome, a stencil-dyeing technique where designs are created by applying rice-paste resist through hand-cut paper stencils before immersion in dye baths. The method produces crisp, clearly defined motifs with the consistency and clarity visible throughout this garment.

Against a rich aubergine-purple ground, two distinct motif types scatter in balanced arrangement. Stylized matsu (pine) clusters in cream-white display their characteristic radiating needles, each burst suggesting the explosive energy of this evergreen symbol of longevity, steadfastness, and endurance through adversity.

Complementing the organic pine forms, kikko (hexagonal tortoiseshell) shapes appear in clusters of two or three, rendered in mustard-gold and pale blue-green. Each hexagon contains a stylized five-petaled flower—likely ume (plum blossom)—in red or cream tones. The tortoiseshell pattern carries profound auspicious meaning: the sea turtle's legendary thousand-year lifespan makes kikko a powerful longevity symbol, while the contained plum blossoms add wishes for perseverance and renewal.

The combination of geometric hexagons with organic pine creates visual interest through contrasting forms, while the limited palette of purple, white, gold, blue, and red maintains chromatic harmony. The generous spacing between motifs allows the sumptuous purple ground to command attention, demonstrating the Japanese principle that empty space contributes as meaningfully as decorated areas.

it maintains an excellent condition. Its measurements span 50 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stand at 59 inches in height (127 cm x 150 cm).