This silk kimono presents an innovative silkscreened faux meisen technique. The garment features a bold, undulating wave-like pattern that creates a sense of fluid movement across the fabric surface, with organic forms rendered in a vibrant palette of turquoise, coral red, and deep magenta against a wine-colored ground. The flowing, almost psychedelic quality of the design reflects the influence of Western Art Nouveau and early Art Deco movements, which emphasized natural forms and rhythmic patterns, while simultaneously evoking traditional Japanese aesthetics found in water motifs and textile designs.

The undulating pattern suggests themes of transformation and fluidity, possibly referencing the traditional Japanese concept of water as a symbol of purification, renewal, and life force. The organic, wave-like forms create an almost ikat-inspired visual effect through the silkscreen process, demonstrating how Japanese textile manufacturers of this era cleverly adapted industrial printing techniques to mimic more traditional methods. The color loss stain visible on both front and back serves as a poignant reminder of the textile's age and the inherent vulnerability of these innovative synthetic dyes that were being experimented with during the interwar period.

Measuring 49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, it stands at 57 inches (145 cm) in height.

This artwork is featured on page 193 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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