Woven Silk Kimono with Earth‑Toned Chrysanthemum Motifs

This silk kimono's substantial weight confirms its intended use as winter wear, providing warmth while maintaining the elegant drape characteristic of quality silk.

The design features an allover pattern of stylized kiku (chrysanthemum) blossoms rendered entirely through the weaving process rather than surface dyeing or printing. The flowers appear with spiky, radiating petals in varying tones of cream, pale gold, and soft olive, floating against a shadowy ground of deep brown, moss green, and black. This tonal complexity—achieved through careful manipulation of warp and weft threads in different colors—creates atmospheric depth, as if viewing flowers through autumn mist or fading evening light.

Chrysanthemums hold profound significance in Japanese culture as symbols of longevity, rejuvenation, and nobility. Associated with autumn and the imperial family, kiku imagery appears throughout Japanese decorative arts from the highest ceremonial contexts to everyday objects. The flower's ability to bloom late into the season, defying early frosts, reinforces its association with endurance and graceful aging.

The subdued, earth-toned palette reflects mature aesthetic sensibilities appropriate for an older wearer, departing from the vibrant colors favored for younger women's garments. This sophisticated restraint—allowing texture and subtle tonal variation to create visual interest rather than bold color contrasts—exemplifies the Japanese appreciation for quieter forms of beauty, where close observation reveals richness invisible at first glance.

It's in very good condition despite minor imperfections, measuring 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.