Description
This hitoe (an unlined summer kimono) is patterned with leaves and water irises, a traditional Japanese motif. The use of bold colors, stylized natural forms, and curvilinear renderings alludes to the possible influence of Art Nouveau. The layered textures from both the gauze weave and the resulting undulation of the shibori technique contrasts with the flat stenciling technique applied to the surface, giving the appearance not of the actual flowers, but of their reflection in rippling water.
Provenance
Summer Kimono (Hitoe)
About 1900–1916
Accession Number
153709
Medium
Silk, plain weave self-patterned by rows of gauze crossings (yoko-ro); resist- dyed (shibori) and stenciled (kata yûzen-zome)
Dimensions
141.9 × 126.4 cm (55 7/8 × 49 3/4 in.); Warp repeat: H.: 74.4 cm (29 1/4 in.)
Classification
weaving - printed
Credit Line
Gift of Mary V. and Ralph E. Hays