Purple Irotomesode Silk Kimono: Embroidered Imperial Carriage

This silk irotomesode (semi-formal kimono) features a deep violet-purple ground that transitions into a richly decorated landscape along the hem. The lower composition is a technical masterpiece, combining silkscreening with intricate surihaku (metallic foil) outlining to create a shimmering, layered effect.

The narrative imagery depicts classical Japanese motifs, including an ornate imperial carriage (goshoguruma) surrounded by blossoming chrysanthemums, pine branches, and mist-covered mountains. These elements are brought to life through a luxurious array of needlework: sagara (knot) embroidery provides tactile texture to the flowers, while metallic couching and smooth satin-stitch embroidery add dimensional brilliance to the carriage and clouds. The purple silk ground serves as a bold, architectural frame for this dense gold and autumnal-toned landscape, reflecting the refined technical mastery and auspicious symbolism of the Showa era.

Its measurements are 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 61 inches (155 cm) in height.