Miyamairi Kimono with Child Daimyō Procession Scene

This formal boy's miyamairi kimono presents an elaborate narrative scene designed to bestow auspicious wishes upon the newborn during his first Shinto shrine visit. The composition combines printing with embroidered highlights to create a richly detailed tableau of remarkable sophistication.

The design depicts a daimyō gyōretsu (feudal lord's procession) charmingly reimagined with children as participants. These young figures wear traditional traveling attire including sedge hats and carry the accoutrements of a formal procession—standards, poles, and ceremonial objects—as they traverse a dramatic landscape. The choice to populate this dignified scene with children transforms martial imagery into something whimsical while maintaining its auspicious associations with leadership, status, and success.

The composition unfolds across a striking tonal progression: a black upper register featuring a luminous full moon above misty mountains and pine groves rendered in cream and gray; a golden-tan middle zone where the procession moves through the landscape; and a black lower section adorned with embroidered pine trees, stylized clouds, and bamboo in gold and white threadwork.

It measures 34 inches (84cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands 42 inches (106cm) in height.

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