This silk miyamairi kimono, intended for a ceremonial Shinto shrine blessing, showcases a scene of Kashiwade no Hanoshi confronting a tiger on the back of the garment. The artwork involves yuzen and freehand painting techniques. It's important to note that the old family crests (mon) were covered by applique crests in the latter half of the 20th century. This kimono portrays the rare and courageous narrative of the fully-dressed samurai, Kashiwade no Hanoshi, engaging in a legendary battle against a tiger. Legend tells of his mission to Korea as an envoy, where tragedy strikes as a tiger claims his daughter, leading to a dramatic confrontation in a bamboo grove. Through bravery and honor, the samurai emerges victorious. This historical tale was popularly depicted in woodblock prints during the period of 1830 to 1850, notably by the renowned artist Utagawa Kuniyoshi. The measurements for this kimono are 33 inches (84 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 40 inches (102 cm) in height.

This artwork is featured on pages 268-271 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.

The piece is also featured on page 93 of the summer 2018 edition of HALI magazine.

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