Set against a dramatic black background, the boy's kimono features stylized kabuto (samurai helmets) and gunpai (military commander's fans) rendered in cream, gold, and muted earth tones. The composition demonstrates the influence of Art Deco's geometric precision and dramatic contrast, while the scattered placement of motifs across the surface echoes the asymmetrical balance characteristic of Japanese design principles.
The kabuto helmets, with their distinctive face guards and ornate detailing, symbolize protection, honor, and martial valor in Japanese culture, making them particularly appropriate for a boy's garment as they invoke wishes for strength and courage. The gunpai fans, traditionally used by military commanders to direct troops and signal commands, represent leadership, strategy, and authority. Together, these motifs create a powerful symbolic program celebrating masculine virtues and samurai ideals, reflecting the militaristic values that were prevalent during Japan's pre-war period of the 1920s-1940s.
The textile's design vocabulary shows how traditional Japanese decorative arts adapted to modernist sensibilities during this era, combining ancient warrior symbolism with contemporary graphic design principles.
The measurements are approximately 31 inches (79 cm) across the shoulders and 32 inches (81 cm) in height.