This remarkable juban (undergarment) represents an extraordinary example of shibori artistry applied to rinzu damask silk, creating a garment of exceptional luxury and technical sophistication. The fact that this is an undergarment makes its elaborate decoration all the more significant - in Japanese aesthetic philosophy, beauty extends to elements that are not visible to others, reflecting the wearer's refined sensibilities and attention to detail.

The design consists of large, cloud-like forms in deep crimson red that appear to float across the golden yellow ground. These organic shapes have the characteristic soft, scalloped edges that result from the shibori resist-dyeing process, where fabric is bound, folded, or compressed before dyeing to create areas that resist color penetration. The irregular, hand-crafted quality of these edges gives the geometric forms an almost natural, atmospheric quality - like stylized clouds or abstract floral motifs.

The detail image reveals the sophisticated interplay between the shibori dyeing and the underlying rinzu damask weave. You can see subtle woven patterns in the golden silk ground - delicate motifs that catch the light differently due to the damask's varied weave structure. This creates a rich textural foundation that adds depth and luminosity to the overall composition.

The color combination of deep red and golden yellow is both bold and harmonious, representing an auspicious pairing in Japanese color symbolism. The fact that such vibrant colors and complex techniques were employed for an undergarment speaks to the high social status and refined taste of the original wearer.

As a juban meant to be worn under a furisode (formal kimono with long swinging sleeves typically worn by young unmarried women), this garment would have been part of an elaborate ensemble for special occasions. The glimpses of this beautiful undergarment at the neckline, sleeve openings, and hem would have provided subtle but striking color accents to complement the outer kimono, demonstrating the sophisticated layering principles that were central to traditional Japanese dress.

Its measurements are approximately 51 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 53 inches in height, or roughly 130 centimeters by 135 centimeters.