This exquisite silk uchikake's most striking feature is the magnificent phoenix rendered in luminous whites and soft corals against a dramatic black ground, its wings spread in full display with intricate feather details that demonstrate the sophisticated yuzen-painting technique. The phoenix, known as ho-o in Japanese culture, symbolizes rebirth, virtue, and marital harmony, making it an especially auspicious motif for wedding attire. The bird's elaborate plumage cascades across the kimono in flowing, organic curves that echo the movement principles found in Art Nouveau, though executed through distinctly Japanese artistic traditions.

Complementing the central phoenix are delicate pine branches with their characteristic needle clusters and cherry blossoms scattered throughout the composition like floating jewels. The pine represents longevity and steadfastness in marriage, while the cherry blossoms (sakura) embody the ephemeral beauty of life and the promise of renewal. The metallic couching work adds dimensional luxury to key elements, particularly visible in the golden accents that highlight the phoenix's crest and wing details. This textile exemplifies the Meiji and Taisho period synthesis of traditional Japanese motifs with refined artistic execution, creating a garment that served both ceremonial function and artistic expression, embodying the cultural values of prosperity, beauty, and marital felicity through its rich symbolic vocabulary.

It measures 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and stands at 59 inches (150 cm) in height.

This artwork is featured on pages 328-329 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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