This silk kimono features prominent rohdea (Japanese sacred lily) motifs set against an unusual yellow background. It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 58 inches (147 cm) in height. The rohdea, an evergreen perennial, found its way into Japanese floral arrangements as foliage filler as far back as the 15th century.
During the Edo period (17th to 19th century), Japanese horticulturalists began appreciating the varied nature of rohdeas grown from seeds, leading to the collection of dwarf, contorted, and variegated cultivars, totaling around 1,000 today. The rohdea motifs on this kimono, while lacking known auspicious connotations, adorn the garment purely for their decorative effect.
The bold, saturated colors used in this kimono represent the adventurous design typical of some Taisho-period creations. Remarkably, this 'modern' graphic statement was crafted a century ago, highlighting the innovative spirit of the era.