This unlined kimono is crafted from kinsha, a fine silk crepe prized for its delicate texture and graceful drape. The garment is dominated by a bold, rhythmic pattern of off-white motifs against a brilliant blue background. The design is yabane, or arrow feathers, a motif rich with cultural symbolism. Traditionally, yabane evokes the virtues of the samurai—determination and precision. As an arrow, once loosed, flies straight and does not return, the pattern became an auspicious symbol for brides, representing the hope for a successful and lasting marriage. By the Taishō period, it was also popularly adopted by female students, symbolizing the direct path of education and progress.

The artistic treatment of the yabane motif is thoroughly modern. The strong, geometric, and repetitive nature of the design shows a clear influence from the global Art Deco movement, which was enthusiastically embraced in Japan and became a key element of the "Taishō Roman" style. This aesthetic celebrated a romantic fusion of Japanese tradition with Western modernity. The technique employed—silkscreening to create a faux ikat—is itself a hallmark of this synthesis. As the close-up reveals, the edges of the motifs are intentionally blurred, mimicking the feathered appearance of true ikat, a laborious traditional resist-dyeing method. Using the modern technology of silkscreening to achieve this celebrated traditional look made such bold designs more accessible and speaks to the period's innovative spirit. The result is a striking garment that transforms a classic Japanese symbol into a powerful piece of graphic art, perfectly capturing the forward-looking and eclectic energy of its time.

The silk itself is fine, featuring a dry, gritty texture. Its measurements span 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stand at 58 inches (147 cm) in height.

This artwork is featured on page 271 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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