This kimono is a testament to the dynamic artistic fusion of its time. The garment is crafted from kinsha, a fine silk crepe known for its delicate texture and graceful drape. The all-over pattern features bold, vertical stripes against a black background, rendered in earthy tones of beige, cream, and a subtle terracotta red. These stripes are not uniform; they possess the characteristic blurred and staggered edges of ikat, a traditional resist-dyeing technique. However, in this piece, the effect is ingeniously replicated through silkscreening, creating a "faux ikat" that was a modern innovation of the era. This method allowed for the desirable aesthetic of ikat with greater production efficiency.
The design itself evokes multiple artistic currents. The strong, graphic quality of the vertical motifs resonates with the burgeoning Art Deco movement, which was gaining international traction and influencing Japanese design. The abstract and somewhat calligraphic nature of the stripes also hints at a modernist reinterpretation of traditional Japanese aesthetics. While the specific symbolism of this abstract motif is open to interpretation, the verticality could suggest strength, growth, or the falling rain, all common themes in Japanese art. The overall impression is one of sophisticated and forward-thinking design, embodying the "Taishō Roman" spirit that embraced both Western artistic ideas and a renewed appreciation for Japanese cultural motifs, albeit through a modern lens.
The measurements span 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stand at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.