This extraordinary textile originates from Japan’s late Showa period (1950–1980) and represents a full, meticulously disassembled panel from a vintage kimono. Measuring 13.75 inches by 78 inches (35 cm x 198 cm), the fabric is crafted from tsumugi silk, a variety renowned for its "dry" handfeel and rustic charm. This specific quality is achieved by using irregular threads spun from hatched cocoons—similar to tussah silk—resulting in a slightly more open weave and a textured surface characterized by natural slubs. The piece remains in excellent condition, with all disassembly threads carefully removed to preserve the integrity of the weave.
The visual narrative features a striking black ground adorned with traditional shibori (tie-dye) artistry. The design is dominated by tachibana (wild citrus) motifs rendered in vibrant pink, a symbol in Japanese culture for longevity and eternal youth. These floral-like citrus blossoms are surrounded by a dense field of kanoko (fawn-spot) shibori dots, which create a rhythmic, textured geometric overlay. The contrast between the deep black dye and the precise pink resist-work exemplifies the high level of technical skill found in mid-to-late 20th-century artisan textiles.