This striking textile originates from Japan’s early Showa period (1925–1935) and is a scholarly example of the bold, graphic transitions occurring in pre-war textile centers. Measuring 14 inches by 57 inches (36 cm x 145 cm), the panel is crafted from a high-quality meisen silk, which remains in excellent condition and retains a vibrant, high-impact aesthetic. As is typical for the meisen variety, the fabric is thinner, slightly crisp, and delicate, yet it offers a pleasing drape and a smooth surface that beautifully carries the intricate woven pattern.
The visual narrative is set against a deep chocolate brown ground, which is layered with horizontal bands of subtle black texture to create an architectural sense of depth. It features a vertical, rhythmic arrangement of kiku (chrysanthemum) flowers rendered in a pale golden ivory. These blossoms are complemented by light steel grey-blue leaves and stems, providing a cool-toned contrast to the warm background. The design is executed with the signature blurred edges of the kasuri (ikat) technique, reflecting the early 20th-century fascination with merging traditional seasonal motifs like the kiku—a symbol of longevity—with modern, earth-toned color palettes.