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This yuzen-dyed silk haori presents a striking modernist interpretation of the classical Japanese pine and stream motif, rendered in bold, simplified forms that demonstrate the period's movement toward graphic abstraction. Against a deep black ground, stylized pine trees appear as organic sculptures in cream and rust-orange tones, their canopies reduced to cloud-like masses while maintaining the characteristic asymmetrical branching that identifies them as pines. The flowing stream elements, depicted in swirling orange patterns with white highlights, create dynamic movement across the composition while the gold foil outlining adds luminous definition to each form.
The artistic approach reflects the influence of mid-century modern design sensibilities, where traditional nature motifs were abstracted into bold, poster-like graphics that emphasized shape and color over naturalistic detail. This treatment aligns with international design movements of the period, particularly the simplified forms and high contrast palettes seen in Scandinavian and American modernist work. The yuzen dyeing technique, traditionally used for highly detailed pictorial scenes, is here employed to achieve clean, flat color areas that feel more akin to screen printing or commercial graphics than classical textile art.
Symbolically, the pine and stream combination carries deep meaning in Japanese culture, representing longevity, steadfastness, and the flow of time. The pine (matsu) is revered as an evergreen that endures through all seasons, while flowing water symbolizes continuity and change. By abstracting these elements into bold, almost cartoon-like forms, the artist creates a contemporary visual language that maintains the cultural significance while appealing to modern aesthetic sensibilities.
There's a light patina spotting on the outside that might be noticeable if worn, and the price has been adjusted accordingly. Its measurements span 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stand at 32 inches (81 cm) in height.