A high-grade rinzu silk kimono that features large and bold yuzen-painted origami paper-crane motifs throughout. Each of the many origami crane motifs is unique. Gold surihaku (metal leafing) outlining. A single mon (family crest) on the back.  49" from sleeve-end to sleeve-end x 59" height.  The orizuru (ori- "folded," tsuru "crane"), or paper crane, is a design considered the most classic of all Japanese origami, and  was first illustrated in one of the oldest known origami books, the Hiden Renzuru no Orikata (1797).  According to Japanese lore, folding 1,000 Origami Cranes is truly a labour of love. Tradition holds that the bride who finishes this task, called 'sembazuru', before her wedding day will be richly rewarded with a good and happy marriage. Paying homage to the majestic crane, which mates for life and is said to live one thousand years, the bride ensures her own good fortune.   The many origami cranes created on this kimono are meant to represent the thousand.  Thus this kimono was likely created and worn at a wedding, either by the bride prior or following the main ceremony, or by the bride's mother.