A hitoe (unlined) sheer summer kimono featuring large painted flowers. The silk is a textured chirimen (crepe) that is 'dry' to the touch. 48" from sleeve-end to sleeve-end x 62" height. This remarkable kimono was designed and created by high-level artists and craftspeople. The flowers are individually painted, with attention to color and detail. The oversized flower motifs were painted in such a way as to yield a perfectly balanced, restrained graphic effect. This example accomplishes the desired effect -- a sophisticated luxury garment obviously superior to most others, probably commissioned by one of Japans elite families of the period.