A formal silk kurotomesode featuring yuzen-painted bamboo. Highlights were created using metallic embroidery and surihaku gold-foil outlining (see detail images). Five "mon" (family crests.  Red silk lining.  50" from sleeve-end to sleeve-end x 63 " height.  The bamboo bends under heavy snow yet never breaks: it is the symbol of endurance and resilience, a place where gods descend to earth.   The bamboo leaves on this kimono are decorated with tiny "kissyo-ka" (auspicious flowers).  Kuro-tomesode (black tomesode) are often worn for wedding ceremonies by married female relatives of the bride or groom.