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This kinsha (fine crepe) silk kurotomesode features a masterful execution of yuzen painting techniques, creating an opulent display of karabana (imaginary flowers). The dramatic black ground serves as a sophisticated backdrop for an elaborate garden of fantastical blooms rendered in rich coral oranges, celestial blues, warm golds, and soft greens, each flower meticulously painted with the subtle gradations and dimensional shading. The karabana motif, literally meaning "Chinese flowers" but referring to imaginative floral designs that blend reality with artistic invention, reflects the Japanese tradition of transforming natural forms into idealized decorative elements that transcend mere botanical representation.
The abundant gold foil outlining (likely kinpaku or surihaku techniques) creates luminous contours that define each petal and leaf while adding a luxurious dimensionality that catches and reflects light as the wearer moves. The flowing vine-like connections between the floral medallions, executed in delicate gold scrollwork, demonstrate the influence of classical Chinese and Korean decorative arts while maintaining distinctly Japanese sensibilities in their asymmetrical arrangement and organic flow. This piece embodies the post-war Japanese cultural renaissance, where traditional craftsmanship was celebrated and preserved as a marker of national identity, resulting in textiles that achieve both technical mastery and profound aesthetic beauty.
The measurements are 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 64 inches (163 cm) in height.