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This exquisite kinsha silk furisode represents the refined culmination of a centuries-old Japanese layering tradition, serving as the innermost garment in an elaborate three-piece kasane ensemble that harkens back to Heian court customs. The ethereal composition features cranes soaring through stylized clouds rendered in soft gradations of amber, peach, and pearl gray, creating an atmospheric dreamscape that embodies the Japanese aesthetic of mono no aware—the poignant beauty of transience. The masterful yuzen painting is enhanced by intricate embroidery and sagara knot work that adds dimensional texture to the birds' feathers and cloud formations, while the subtle red lining glimpsed through the translucent white silk creates depth and warmth, following the traditional color hierarchy of black outer, red middle, and white inner layers.
The artistic treatment reflects the period's sophisticated interpretation of classical motifs, where traditional crane symbolism—representing longevity, fidelity, and divine transcendence—is rendered with a naturalistic grace that suggests influence from contemporary painting movements. The flowing composition seamlessly integrates across the garment's surface, creating a sense of continuous movement that transforms the wearer into a living canvas. This piece exemplifies the height of Japanese textile artistry during an era when wealthy families could still commission such elaborate multi-garment sets from master artisans, representing not only exceptional craftsmanship but also the preservation of aristocratic aesthetic traditions that connected Taisho-era Japan to its classical cultural heritage.
Five gold-foil mon adorn it. Some areas exhibit patina (refer to images). It measures 49 inches (125 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 60 inches (152 cm) in height.