This rare silk uchikake features finely embroidered wisteria, peonies, tatewaku (serpentine lines), and stenciled imitation tie-dyeing (kata kanoko). While this exceptional garment remains in good condition, there are a few areas where the background color has slightly faded. In the image 'with the garment showing the front closed, there is a noticeable 'kink.' Additionally, the padding has been removed from the bottom, and the hem has been lifted and sewn a few inches against the inside. Measuring 47 inches (119 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 60 inches (152 cm) in height, this uchikake holds historical significance.

The red background color, derived from benibana (safflower), suggests that this kimono was likely commissioned by the samurai or nobility class due to its costly and restricted use. It's a unique surviving example, not found in museums, unlike several others housed in Japanese institutions. For instance, there is an example described in the volume "When Art Became Fashion" at the Tokyo National Museum (catalogue 48, p. 257) and another showcased on page 4 of "Japanese Kimono Designs of the Nomura Collection."

This artwork is featured on pages 372-373 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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