A striking black rinzu silk haori adorned with yuzen-painted motifs of bamboo shoots that cascade dynamically across the fabric. The design showcases clusters of stylized bamboo shoots in vibrant, multi-hued palettes—ranging from deep reds and pinks to teal blues, pale yellows, and crisp whites—arranged in flowing, asymmetrical groupings that evoke a sense of natural movement and vitality. Thin white lines connect and accentuate the shoots, resembling stems or veins, while extensive gold foil highlights outline the edges and add a shimmering, metallic depth that catches the light, enhancing the textural contrast against the dark ground. Beneath the painted elements, the rinzu damask weave subtly incorporates patterns of mature bamboo leaves, creating a layered interplay between the woven foundation and the surface decoration.
This artwork evokes the spirit of the Taisho era's artistic fusion, blending traditional Japanese techniques with influences from Western Art Nouveau through its sinuous, organic lines and stylized flora, as well as early Art Deco in the geometric abstraction of the leaf forms and bold color blocking. The bamboo shoot motifs carry rich symbolism in Japanese culture, representing resilience and flexibility, as bamboo bends without breaking in storms, symbolizing endurance amid adversity; they also connote rapid growth, prosperity, and renewal, often associated with spring and new beginnings, while the mature leaves in the damask underscore themes of maturity and longevity.
It measures 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 38 inches (97 cm) in height.