This kimono showcases the enduring appeal of tachibana (Japanese bitter orange) motifs in Japanese textile design, rendered through a sophisticated weaving technique that demonstrates the continued evolution of Japanese textile production during the reconstruction period. The tachibana pattern carries profound cultural significance as one of Japan's most ancient and revered botanical symbols, representing eternal youth, prosperity, and imperial connection - the tachibana being one of the sacred trees associated with the imperial court and featured prominently in classical literature including the Tale of Genji. The bold, stylized presentation of these citrus blossoms against the rich burgundy ground reflects the aesthetic confidence of post-war Japanese design, where traditional motifs were reimagined with greater graphic simplicity and visual impact.
The weaving technique employed here shares characteristics with meisen silk production, a method that gained prominence during the Taisho and early Showa periods and continued to influence textile manufacturing well into the post-war era. This technique allowed for the creation of precise, painterly effects through sophisticated resist-dyeing processes applied to the warp threads before weaving, resulting in the crisp edges and dimensional quality visible in the tachibana blossoms. The subtle gradations within each flower - from golden yellow centers to lighter cream petals - demonstrate the technical mastery achieved by mid-century Japanese weavers who had adapted traditional methods to meet modern aesthetic preferences for bolder, more graphic designs.
The composition reflects the influence of both traditional Japanese decorative principles and emerging modernist sensibilities of the period. The scattered placement of the tachibana motifs across the garment surface follows classical asymmetrical design principles while their enlarged scale and simplified forms speak to mid-century modern design trends that emphasized clarity and visual impact over intricate detail.
Measuring 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.