This furisode showcases a masterful example of yuzen resist-painting on kinsha silk, where the striking beni-orange ground creates an unusually bold and luminous backdrop for an exquisite mythological and natural scene. The design depicts a harmonious gathering of auspicious motifs including magnificent phoenixes (ho-o) with their distinctive scaled white plumage, iridescent turquoise-colored beaks, and dark wing markings that distinguish them from naturalistic birds, lush pine trees rendered in deep forest greens with carefully modulated tones, and an abundance of blooming flowers in soft pastels of pink, yellow, and white. The composition flows organically around the garment, with the motifs concentrated along the hem and sleeves in the traditional furisode arrangement, while the vibrant orange field provides dramatic contrast that makes each painted element appear to glow with inner light.
The artistic treatment reflects the sophisticated color sensibilities of the early 20th century, when textile artists began experimenting with more daring color combinations while maintaining classical motif vocabularies. The phoenix, pine, and flower combination represents an elevated symbolic program, as phoenixes embody imperial virtue, supernatural blessing, and good fortune - making them particularly appropriate for a young woman's formal kimono of high status. The evergreen pines represent steadfastness and eternal youth, while the seasonal flowers add delicate beauty to the composition. The technical excellence of the yuzen work is evident in the intricate scaled feather patterns of the phoenixes, the subtle gradations within each motif, and the crisp boundaries between colors, while freehand painted details add spontaneous touches that bring life to these mythical creatures. This unusual orange ground color choice demonstrates the period's embrace of more adventurous aesthetics while maintaining the essential elegance and supernatural grandeur expected in the finest formal women's wear.
It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end, with a height of 61 inches (155 cm).