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This ceremonial youth kimono employs the sophisticated metaphor of the "cape of invisibility" to create an ingenious design solution.. Set against a lustrous black satin silk ground, the composition features multiple groupings of the Shichiho (Seven Treasures) - legendary auspicious objects that include the wish-fulfilling jewel, sacred scrolls, rhinoceros horn cups, clove weights, and other talismanic items believed to bestow protection and prosperity upon the wearer. The yuzen-painting technique achieves remarkable precision in rendering each treasure with distinctive colors and intricate surface patterns, while the light padding adds dimensional quality that enhances the garment's ceremonial gravitas.
The artistic genius of this piece lies in the designer's use of the cape of invisibility motif as both literal treasure and compositional device - the flowing, linear cape forms create dynamic visual connections between scattered treasure groupings, transforming what could have been a static arrangement into a unified, rhythmic composition that flows gracefully around the kimono's form. This approach reflects the sophisticated understanding of negative space and visual flow characteristic of the Rinpa school, while the symbolic program speaks to Confucian ideals of virtue and protection appropriate for a young person of high social standing. The overall effect creates a sense of magical protection quite literally woven into the fabric, embodying the Japanese aesthetic principle of functional beauty where artistry serves both decorative and spiritual purposes.
Measurements: 38 inches (97 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at a height of 36 inches (91 cm).