Description
A Japanese Kimono mirrors the historical development of the country, and reflects cultural values. This is an extraordinary example of a finely hand stenciled Informal Kimono that was intended for at-home wear. A garment whose design has been stenciled takes an enormous amount of time and effort to create. First, the stencil “paper” must be created through a tedious process of working the leaves from the mulberry tree into a pulp, which is then sandwiched together and treated with persimmon juice in order to produce a strong stencil. A design as fine as this one takes a great deal of skill to cut, and would be further reinforced by laying fine threads of silk to keep it together during the time that it was used to paint the pattern on the silk of the Kimono. The unusual use of the pale blue and pale pink colors also contributes to the unique characteristics of this Kimono.
The figures dancing and tumbling around on this treasure are often referred to as “Karako” by the Japanese. It is their vision of “little happy people,” and was also used as a stereotype for the Chinese. An individual who could have commissioned such an intricate and rare overall pattern, often referred to as a “Meiji jimon” or small repeat pattern, would have had to have been wealthy indeed, as well as possessing an inner sense of humor.
It is no wonder that the Kimono became an official part of the family’s wealth and a highly prized heirloom that was treasured for generations.
A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
TTAC will personally pack and ship via UPS at company expense within the continental U.S.