This rayon hitoe (unlined) 'sha' (gauze) summer kimono showcases motifs resembling rhubarb leaves. The leaves, woven into the fabric, feature hand-painted highlights, which can be viewed in the detail images. With a gritty texture, it measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 58 inches (147 cm) in height.

During the 1920s and 1930s in Japan, rayon, an "artificial silk" made from wood pulp, gained popularity as a durable alternative to silk. However, despite its popularity, rayon was limited to approximately 10% of kimonos, with the vast majority still crafted from traditional silk.

This particular kimono offers a sophisticated and 'modern' sensibility with its subtle blue and yellow-colored large leaves set against a black background, showcasing a departure from the traditional style while retaining a sense of refinement.

This artwork is featured on page 218 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.

‍