This silk kimono exemplifies the sophisticated aesthetic of traditional Japanese textile design through its masterful use of striping patterns. The garment features a classic vertical stripe composition alternating between deep indigo-purple and warm tan or golden brown bands, with the detail image revealing the intricate complexity within what initially appears to be simple stripes. Each colored section contains multiple fine lines, creating a subtle rhythm and optical texture that demonstrates the high level of craftsmanship achieved during the Meiji period. This type of striped pattern, known as "shima" in Japanese textile terminology, represents one of the most enduring and versatile motifs in kimono design, with countless variations developed over centuries.
The aesthetic philosophy behind this design reflects the Japanese principle of "shibui"—understated elegance that finds beauty in restraint and subtle sophistication rather than bold ornamentation. The alternating color scheme creates a visual rhythm that is both dynamic and harmonious, while the precision of the stripe placement speaks to the technical mastery of the weaver. Such striped patterns were particularly popular during the late Edo and early Meiji periods, when sumptuary laws often restricted elaborate decorative motifs, leading textile artists to explore the infinite possibilities within geometric patterns.
Measuring 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 58 inches (147 cm) in height.