This boy's kimono features the beloved motif of karako (Chinese children) in a delightfully animated scene. The composition depicts numerous chubby-cheeked children with characteristic topknots clustered around and climbing over a large ceramic vessel, creating a sense of joyful chaos and playful energy that flows seamlessly across the garment's surface. The design employs a sophisticated color palette of deep navy blue alternating with cream-colored bands, punctuated by the children's vibrant clothing in shades of red, purple, green, and golden yellow, while the large pot is rendered in warm ochre tones with decorative geometric patterns.
The artistic execution demonstrates the advanced printing techniques that were being refined during the Meiji period, as Japan rapidly modernized its textile industry while maintaining traditional aesthetic sensibilities. The karako motif itself draws from Chinese literary and artistic traditions but had been thoroughly absorbed into Japanese decorative vocabulary, representing abundance, fertility, and the promise of many sons—making it an especially auspicious choice for a young boy's formal wear. There is a remarkable attention to detail in each child's individual expression and pose, with some climbing, others reaching, and several appearing to tumble or play, creating a narrative quality reminiscent of classical scroll paintings or ukiyo-e prints.
It measures 35 inches (89 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 37 inches (94 cm) in height.