This delicate textile originates from Japan’s early Showa period (1930–1940) and is a scholarly example of the masterful application of resist-dyeing to classical motifs. Measuring 14.25 inches by 51 inches (36 cm x 130 cm), the panel is crafted from high-quality soft silk and remains in excellent condition. The composition features a bold, vertical arrangement of oversized arrow fletchings set against a densely patterned lavender-purple ground.
The visual narrative utilizes the shibori technique to create a highly textured and symbolic design. The arrow motifs, known as yagasuri, are a traditional pattern signifying steadfastness and protection, as an arrow shot forward never returns. These large fletchings are rendered in a soft cream with pale peach highlights, outlined by deep purple borders that provide a crisp, architectural definition. The background is composed of thousands of tiny, hand-tied kanoko (fawn-spot) dots, creating a rhythmic, pointillist effect that softens the rigid geometry of the arrows. This specific combination of large-scale graphic symbols and intricate, labor-intensive resist-work reflects the pre-war trend of revitalizing folk-art patterns for sophisticated urban apparel.