This chirimen silk kimono represents a bold departure from traditional Japanese textile design conventions, embodying the experimental spirit and cultural dynamism of early 20th-century Japan. Set against a vibrant teal ground, the garment features an innovative composition of discrete pictorial vignettes—each functioning as an independent "painting" within irregularly shaped frames scattered across the kimono's surface. These motifs encompass a diverse range of subjects including stylized waves, various floral arrangements, geometric patterns, and naturalistic elements, all rendered through masterful yuzen-painting techniques that achieve remarkable color saturation and precise linear definition.

The design philosophy reflects the profound cultural shifts occurring during the Taishō era, when Japan was actively synthesizing Western artistic concepts with traditional Japanese aesthetics. The fragmented, collage-like approach to surface decoration suggests influences from contemporary movements in Western art, particularly the emerging modernist sensibilities that emphasized compositional experimentation and the breakdown of unified pictorial space. The close-up details reveal the sophisticated technical execution, with bold cloud-like forms outlined in metallic thread creating dynamic movement across warm orange and coral backgrounds.

It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.

This artwork is featured on page 253 of Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan, 1905-1960. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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