Art Deco Dounuki Kimono: Red & Purple Ichimatsu Silk

This silk dounuki kimono features a striking bicolor composition that exemplifies the bold, geometric sensibilities of the Art Deco era in Japan. The upper section is crafted from a vibrant crimson silk with a subtle ichimatsu (checkerboard) damask weave, while the lower hem and sleeve accents are rendered in a deep, contrasting purple. The dounuki style, which traditionally involves piecing together different fabrics, is used here to create a modern, high-contrast aesthetic that bridges classical tailoring with early 20th-century minimalism.

In Japanese culture, the red upper half symbolizes vitality and protection, while the purple lower section evokes nobility and spiritual depth. The woven checkerboard pattern further signifies prosperity and the uninterrupted continuity of a lineage. This piece moves away from complex pictorial narratives in favor of architectural form and pure color theory. The lustrous quality of the silk damask adds a layer of sophistication, as the light reveals the hidden geometric patterns within the red field, allowing the garment to shift in appearance as it catches the light.

It measures 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.