Rinzu Silk Uchikake: Yuzen Cranes & Sagara Embroidery

This rinzu silk uchikake (wedding over-kimono) is a spectacular example of bridal textile art, featuring a dense, narrative landscape of auspicious symbols. The garment is crafted from a dark, figured silk damask and serves as a canvas for a complex combination of yuzen resist dyeing and multi-layered embroidery. Flying cranes (tsuru), gnarled pine trees (matsu), and plum blossoms (ume) are rendered across the entire surface, interconnected by a winding river motif that flows vertically down the length of the piece.

The craftsmanship is distinguished by the variety of needlework techniques employed: sagara (French knot) embroidery adds a pebbled, moss-like texture to the pine foliage, while satin-stitch and couching provide a lustrous, raised effect to the cranes and floral details. Collectively known as the "Three Friends of Winter" (pine, plum, and bamboo) combined with the crane and tortoise, these motifs represent a profound wish for longevity, resilience, and a happy marriage.

It features five large mon (family crests) and measures 51 inches (130 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, with a height of 59 inches (150 cm). However, it's in fair to good condition, exhibiting several large breaks in both the inner lining and outer fabric due to silk weakening.