This ceremonial miyamairi presents a central band of cream silk creates a luminous stage for the naturalistic imagery, while the precise horizontal division reflects classical Japanese aesthetic principles of visual balance and harmony.
The hawk motif, rendered through a combination of sumi-e brushwork and delicate embroidery accents, embodies quintessential masculine virtues in Japanese culture—keen vision, decisive action, and unwavering focus. The bird's piercing golden eye, achieved through careful thread work, serves as the composition's focal point while symbolizing the clarity of perception hoped for in the child's future. Surrounding pine needles, painted with the characteristic economy of sumi-e technique, reinforce themes of endurance and steadfastness, as pine trees remain evergreen through all seasons. The artistic execution reflects the influence of the Maruyama-Shijō school's naturalistic approach, where careful observation of nature was combined with expressive brushwork to capture both physical accuracy and spiritual essence. This synthesis of painting and embroidery techniques creates textural depth that transforms the garment into a three-dimensional artwork, while the monochromatic palette maintains the contemplative quality associated with Zen aesthetics and the solemnity appropriate for sacred ritual.
It's in very good condition overall, with areas showing foxing. The measurements are 32 inches (81 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 38 inches (97 cm) in height.