This kurotomesode is made of chirimen silk and has a sophisticated decoration employing yuzen dyeing, a celebrated resist-dye technique originating in the Edo period, which here manifests in the crisp, naturalistic rendering of seasonal motifs—plum blossoms, pine, and bamboo grass—set against a deep black ground. These motifs together form the classic "Sho Chiku Bai" trio, emblematic of steadfastness, renewal, and perseverance: pine represents longevity and endurance, plum blossoms signify vitality and purity renewing in adversity (often as first of the year’s flowers), and bamboo connotes resilience and upright strength, making the kimono not only ornamental but imbued with auspicious wishes.
Close examination reveals the lavish details: foil accents shimmer amidst the hand-painted yuzen, expertly blended with tactile embroidery that outlines blossoms and branches, further elevating each motif’s presence. Freehand highlights in soft pigment add a painterly touch and denote an artist’s confident improvisation. The balance, rhythmic placement of floral elements, and interplay of bold color (red, white, and jade-green on black) evoke the elegant restraint of the Nihonga painting movement, which reasserted Japanese aesthetics and materials against Western influence during the early–mid 20th century. The layering of techniques and the attention to fine detail aligns with mingei ideals (the Japanese folk art movement) that celebrated artisanal skill and beauty in everyday objects, even as the execution remains luxurious and formal.
Overall, the kurotomesode visually celebrates seasonal transition and the hope for resilience, aligning its symbolism with both ceremonial propriety and the artistic spirit of mid-century Japan, where tradition and subtle innovation coexisted.
It includes a complete white inner lining (refer to images). In excellent condition with slight imperfections. Measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands 60 inches (152 cm) tall.