Sheer Silk Hitoe with Urushi‑Thread Birds and Spirals

This sheer silk hitoe (unlined) summer kimono demonstrates the refined artistry of urushi-ito (lacquer-coated thread) weaving, where silk threads treated with lacquer create motifs with distinctive texture and subtle sheen. The technique produces slightly stiffened, dimensional imagery that stands apart from the gossamer ground fabric.

Against the transparent black silk, elegant birds soar in graceful flight, their elongated forms rendered in pale cream and soft gold tones. These appear to be stylized waterfowl or hawks, their outstretched wings and trailing bodies creating dynamic diagonal movement across the garment. Interspersed among the birds, concentric spiral motifs in silvery urushi-coated threads suggest uzumaki (whirlpools) or abstract water currents, their tight coils adding geometric counterpoint to the organic bird forms.

The characteristic rough texture of urushi-thread work provides tactile interest that rewards touch as well as sight. The lacquer coating also adds subtle luminosity, catching light differently than standard silk threads and creating dimensional highlights as the wearer moves.

The extreme sheerness of this summer garment would reveal undergarments beneath, creating the layered visual depth prized in refined Japanese dress. The combination of soaring birds with swirling water imagery evokes summer skies over rivers or marshlands—cooling imagery appropriate for the season while carrying auspicious associations with freedom and natural vitality.

Measuring approximately 49 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing 60 inches tall (124 cm x 152 cm).

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