A very fine silk miyamairi kimono used for christening a baby boy at a Shinto ceremony, featuring a jumping carp motif. Techniques involve embroidery and metallic-couching highlights, 'bokashi', and sume e painting. The silk fabric itself is of a reflective inter-locking diamond pattern created by a damask or brocade technique that we have seen only in Edo-period textiles. Some slight smudging and a few tiny inconspicuous holes. 32" from sleeve-end to sleeve-end x 37" height. The wild carp has long been, and remains, a symbol of courage and strength. Its symbolic significance stems from the life it has to lead in its natural habitat, constantly struggling against turbulent, rushing streams with eddies and waterfalls. The carp is often used as a talisman for good fortune and wealth. As well as standing for strength of will, the life force, and energy, the carp is also a symbol of fertility. This example is the oldest extant miyamairi kimono that we have come across in our years of collecting and research.