Base fabric: figured silk (rinzu) with spider chrysanthemum pattern

Size style: Chu-haori

Family crests (mon) present: none

Dimensions: 50 inches (127 cm)from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 33 inches (84 cm) in height

 This haori features stylized yuzen-painted kumo (cloud) motifs rendered in an abstract, geometric manner against a rich black background. The clouds are depicted in a palette of earthy copper-browns, warm ochres, and crisp whites with subtle blue accents, creating a sophisticated interplay of natural and modern elements.

The composition is particularly interesting as it shows remarkable similarities to both Art Deco sensibilities and Abstrac tExpressionism. The cloud forms are arranged in an asymmetrical yet balanced pattern that reflects the Japanese principle of fukinsei (irregularity), while their elongated, streamlined shapes echo the sleek geometries that characterize Art Deco design. The overall aesthetic achieves a remarkable balance between dynamic movement and serene spacing, demonstrating the Japanese concept of ma (negative space). The way the clouds are abstracted and distributed across the black field creates a rhythm that feels surprisingly modern, almost anticipating the graphic sensibilities of mid-century modernism. The simplified, bold forms and the way they float in the dark space of the fabric show an interesting parallel to some aspects of Abstract Expressionism, particularly in how natural forms are reduced to their essential geometric qualities while maintaining their organic essence.

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