Black Silk Haori: Cream Wavy Bands with Old Japanese Scenes

This silk haori is a captivating narrative piece from the mid-20th century, utilizing high-contrast graphics to illustrate classical cultural themes. The garment is rendered on a deep black silk ground, providing a stark architectural field for its rhythmic horizontal composition.

The primary design features a series of wavy horizontal cream bands that traverse the entire body and sleeves. These bands are densely filled with depictions of old Japanese scenes, including traditional architectural structures, pastoral landscapes, and figures in historical attire. The illustrative style within the bands resembles woodblock print artistry, with fine black linework detailing the minute elements of each vignette. This piece reflects the Showa era's talent for blending nostalgic, "Old Japan" imagery with a modern, repetitive layout that creates a bold, almost optical effect across the silk.

It's in excellent condition, measuring 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 40 inches (102 cm) in height.

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