This exquisite wedding uchikake represents the pinnacle of early 20th century Japanese bridal textile artistry, executed through the refined yuzen dyeing technique combined with rich silk and metallic embroidery. As a formal outer kimono worn over the wedding ensemble, this garment transforms the bride into a living canvas of auspicious symbolism. The composition centers around the traditional "hana guruma" (flower cart) motif, which carries profound bridal significance - the cart laden with seasonal flowers represents the bride's journey into married life, abundance, prosperity, and the hope that her new household will flourish through all seasons.

The artwork demonstrates the influence of the Rinpa school's decorative style, perfectly suited to the ceremonial grandeur required of wedding garments. Against a deep, lustrous black ground that symbolizes formality and elegance, the design unfolds with autumn maple leaves rendered in brilliant oranges and corals, representing the maturity and wisdom the bride brings to marriage. Delicate cherry blossoms and peonies in soft pinks and whites - flowers associated with feminine beauty, honor, and good fortune - create layers of auspicious meaning essential to bridal wear.

The ornate wooden carts, decorated with intricate geometric patterns and adorned with red tassels, serve as vessels for this floral abundance, literally carrying the bride's hopes for a fruitful marriage. The purple stream-like forms with circular patterns represent the flow of life and continuity of generations. The careful balance between densely decorated areas and expanses of dark silk creates the dramatic visual impact befitting such a momentous occasion. This uchikake embodies the Meiji to early Showa period's approach to bridal fashion, where traditional craft techniques and cultural symbolism were elevated to create garments that transformed the bride into an embodiment of beauty, prosperity, and cultural continuity.

Measurements:  49 inches (124 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 59 inches (150 cm) in height

This artwork is featured on page 105 of Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan, 1905-1960. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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