This meisen silk jacket displays a bold interpretation of oak leaf motifs rendered in a striking palette of deep burgundy, cream, and teal. The design features large-scale oak leaves with their characteristic lobed edges, some rendered as solid forms in vibrant teal while others appear as flowing, linear patterns that create rhythmic movement across the fabric surface. The meisen technique, known for its ikat-like effects achieved through pre-dyed warps, produces subtle color variations and soft edges that give the leaves an organic, almost watercolor-like quality against areas of solid burgundy that provide dramatic contrast.
The oak leaf holds particular significance in Japanese culture as a symbol of strength, endurance, and nobility, making it an especially meaningful motif during the reconstruction period following World War II when themes of resilience and renewal were culturally resonant. This garment reflects the aesthetic boldness that characterized meisen production during its golden age, when mass-production techniques allowed for more experimental and affordable designs that could incorporate Western color sensibilities while maintaining Japanese symbolic content. The dynamic composition and saturated colors show clear influence from mid-century modern design movements, particularly in the way traditional natural forms are abstracted into bold graphic patterns that emphasize surface decoration over naturalistic representation.
It measures 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, standing at 37 inches (94 cm) in height.