This silk meisen kimono features bobbins on a hemp-leaf pattern known as 'asanoha'. Measuring 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.

The silk-reel bobbin motif holds significance associated with the Tanabata festival, celebrated on the seventh day of the seventh month, marking the annual reunion of the Herdsman (Altair) and Weaver Girl (Vega) stars. Legend has it that these celestial lovers were condemned to spend the year apart on opposite sides of the Heavenly River (Milky Way) until this one night of reunion. The bobbins on the kimono symbolize this festival and weaving implements were also used in Japanese culture to appease vengeful spirits.

The background pattern of this kimono, the asanoha motif, is a popular Japanese traditional pattern. It's named asanoha due to its resemblance to a hemp leaf, featuring a geometric design with six diamond-shaped patterns arranged radially. Despite its name, it doesn't borrow from a plant motif but is a geometric pattern. The asanoha design is believed by the Japanese to possess protective properties and has traditionally been used on baby diapers and clothing.

The placement of the itomaki (bobbin) motifs randomly scattered on the black and red asanoha patterns creates a striking and graphic visual on this kimono.

This artwork is featured on page 244 of Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan, 1905-1960. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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