This ceremonial boy's kimono depicts the legendary Momotaro (Peach Boy) embarking on his heroic journey, accompanied by his faithful animal companions - the dog and monkey - who would later be joined by a pheasant in the complete tale. The composition is masterfully arranged to create a sense of adventure and movement, with the characters positioned as if caught in the midst of their quest to defeat the oni (demons) of Onigashima.

The artistic execution employs sophisticated yuzen dyeing combined with freehand painting techniques that allow for remarkable detail and character expression. The central figure of Momotaro is rendered in traditional costume with a checkered pattern kimono and purple vest, his determined expression capturing the heroic spirit of the tale. The animal companions are depicted with individual personalities - the loyal dog with alert ears and the clever monkey adorned with a decorative umbrella or parasol, both rendered in soft blues and greens that harmonize beautifully with the overall color palette.

The detail images image reveal the extraordinary technical skill involved in creating these figures, showing the monkey character in exquisite detail with its expressive face, carefully painted fur markings, and elaborate costume decorated with blue floral motifs. This type of story kimono reflects the influence of popular culture on high textile art during the Meiji and early Taisho periods, when traditional craftsmanship merged with more accessible folk themes, representing a democratization of artistic subject matter that parallels similar movements in Western art of the same era.

Notably, it's part of a set (item 2973a sold separately). The kimono features a mon (family crest) depicting two facing plovers. It measures 33 inches (84 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at a height of 47 inches (119 cm).

This artwork is featured on pages 230-231 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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