This meisen silk haori bursts with exuberant color and oversized floral motifs, emblematic of the bold aesthetic that defined meisen fashion during this period. Towering kiku (chrysanthemums), botan (peonies), and orchids dominate the textile, rendered in saturated hues of turquoise, yellow, crimson, and emerald green. The blossoms are outlined in black for graphic emphasis, while the background features stylized red cloud-like forms that add depth and movement to the composition.

Each flower carries rich layers of symbolism: chrysanthemums, associated with autumn and longevity, embody imperial dignity and seasonal beauty; peonies, often called the “king of flowers,” symbolize prosperity and honor; and orchids evoke refinement and elegance. Together, these motifs create a luxurious and auspicious ensemble of imagery, while their exaggerated scale and daring palette reflect the influence of global modernism and the Art Deco movement.

The meisen technique, with its distinctive blurred edges, enhances the vibrancy of the design, giving the flowers a painterly dynamism. Unlike the reserved naturalism of earlier kimono decoration, this design celebrates theatricality and visual impact, aligning with the new consumer culture of interwar Japan, where urban women embraced modern fashion as a statement of individuality and sophistication.

The combination of auspicious floral motifs with the fearless use of color and form illustrates how traditional symbols were transformed into bold, modern compositions. This haori exemplifies the way meisen weaving became a democratic medium for avant-garde textile art, allowing everyday garments to carry the same visual charge as contemporary painting and graphic design.

It measures 48 inches (122 cm) along the shoulders and stands at 38 inches (97 cm) in height.