This silk miyamairi kimono, used for a baby boy's christening in a Shinto ceremony, illustrates the famous folktale battle scene of Gojo Bridge through yuzen-painting and freehand depictions. It portrays the duel involving Benkei and Minamoto no Yoshitsune. There are slight foxing marks in several small areas (visible in the adjoining detail images) and staining on the inner lining. The measurements are 32 inches (81 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 39 inches (99 cm) in height.

The Gojo Bridge tale involves two historical figures turned legends: Benkei, a warrior monk turned yamabushi, recognizable by their black caps, and Minamoto no Yoshitsune, son of warlord Minamoto no Yoshitomo. Benkei stationed himself at Gojo Bridge in Kyoto, disarming passing swordsmen, collecting 999 swords. On his 1000th duel, he was defeated by Yoshitsune, thereafter becoming his retainer. On this kimono, Benkei is intricately detailed while Yoshitsune is represented by a sword, simplifying the image and highlighting Benkei's significance.

This legend, depicted on the kimono, is fitting for a boy, embodying bravery and nobility, qualities parents aspire their sons to embrace. The painting is notably detailed for a miyamairi kimono, especially in the rendering of river waves, the bridge, and the meticulously executed bamboo grass and flower motifs adorning Benkei's kimono and hakama.

This artwork is featured on pages 226-227 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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