This silk miyamairi kimono presents yuzen-painted depictions inspired by a Japanese folktale, the story of Kintaro. It measures 24 inches (61 cm) across the sleeves and stands at 38 inches (97 cm) in height, bearing various smudges and light stains due to age.
The tale revolves around Kintaro, a child raised by Yamauba near Mount Fuji, growing up alongside animal friends. One noteworthy incident involves him refereeing a wrestling match among his friends, as depicted in woodblock prints by Tsukioka Yoshitoshi, particularly the "Moon of Kintoki's Mountain" from October 1890.
The kimono's central theme, inspired by Yoshitoshi's artwork, showcases Kintaro, vegetables, a rabbit, and a creature resembling a monkey or a different animal within a forest scene, deviating slightly from the print's original composition. While it's uncertain if Yoshitoshi was directly involved in this kimono's design, the resemblance and thematic connection suggest a potential influence, given Yoshitoshi's renowned artistic sensibility. Considering Yoshitoshi's passing in 1892, if his involvement occurred, it likely took place between 1890 and 1892. This kimono's motifs have been observed on only one other garment, identified as item 2501.