This rinzu silk kimono features the classic kikko (tortoiseshell) pattern rendered in vibrant emerald green against a pale pink ground, with each hexagonal form precisely executed through silkscreen printing - a technique that represented the period's embrace of industrial efficiency while maintaining aesthetic sophistication. The underlying sayagata damask weave creates subtle geometric texture that complements rather than competes with the bold surface pattern, showcasing the technical mastery of Japanese silk production during this era.
The kikko motif carries deep symbolic resonance in Japanese culture, representing longevity and good fortune through its association with the turtle, one of the four sacred animals believed to live for ten thousand years. This hexagonal pattern also evokes the natural geometry found in turtle shells and honeycomb structures, connecting the wearer to both protective qualities and industrious prosperity. The artistic sensibility reflects the Taishō period's distinctive blend of traditional values with modern aesthetics, where bold color combinations and streamlined production methods created textiles that were both accessible and sophisticated. The stark contrast between the saturated green hexagons and the soft pink field demonstrates an emerging modern Japanese color palette that would influence textile design well into the 20th century.
It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 57 inches (145 cm) in height.