This haori showcases the sophisticated yuzen dyeing technique, evident in the delicately painted floral motifs that appear to float against the deep, lustrous background. The base fabric presents woven peony patterns.
The floral arrangements display a carefully orchestrated composition of chrysanthemums, maple leaves, and other seasonal blooms rendered in warm autumn palette of golds, oranges, and muted earth tones. These motifs carry deep cultural significance - chrysanthemums symbolize longevity and nobility (being the imperial flower), while maple leaves represent the fleeting beauty of autumn and the Buddhist concept of impermanence. The circular medallions and geometric patterns interspersed throughout suggest influences from both classical court traditions and the emerging modern design sensibilities of the early 20th century.
The embroidered highlights add dimensional richness to the painted elements, demonstrating the Japanese mastery of combining multiple textile techniques within a single garment. This piece reflects the Taisho period's characteristic blend of traditional craftsmanship with subtle modernist influences, where artisans maintained classical motifs while incorporating new compositional approaches. The overall effect evokes the Japanese concept of "iki" - a sophisticated aesthetic ideal emphasizing subtle elegance and restrained beauty that would have appealed to the cultivated tastes of the urban merchant class during this period of cultural flowering.
Its measurements are 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 39 inches (99 cm) in height.