This sheer hitoe (unlined) silk summer kimono showcases artistic depictions of large banana leaves and dragonflies, accented with silver and gold foil, along with numerous horizontal silver-thread inserts. It bears a single finely-embroidered family crest, despite several dye stains. Measuring 50 inches (127 cm) across the sleeves and standing at 58 inches (147 cm) in height, this kimono presents unique elements.
Bananas, not native to Japan, rarely feature in Japanese art. The large banana leaves in this kimono serve a decorative purpose, symbolizing the richness of summer. On the other hand, the "tonbo" or dragonfly holds a significant history in Japanese art, evoking nostalgic imagery of childhood days spent chasing dragonflies amid rice paddies during summers.
What makes this kimono particularly unusual is the presence of a "mon" (family crest), indicating a semi-formal nature. Most summer kimonos lack family crests. This suggests that the kimono might have been created specifically for wear at a particular summer festival, adding to its distinctiveness.