A Child's Well-Worn and Repaired Kimono: Beautiful Inside and Out

early twentieth century
33 1/2" x 36 1/2", 85 cm x 93 cm

This is a well-worn child's kimono whos surface is quite abraded and bears two patches on the proper, lower right of the garment. The inside, or the lining of the kimono, is of a completely different character than that of the outside: like the outside, however, it is pretty clear that each of the two sides of the kimono were hand stitched from recycled cotton.

The damage to the striped cloth of the outside of the small kimono is curious because the dark or black areas of the cloth are the most affected by wear. This might be due to iron used for mordanting that color but this is not clear nor might it be correct. Still, the effect is visually interesting and adds to the overall appeal of the garment.

The two patches are not noticeable at first but they do add to the subtle variety that makes this kimono so attractive.

The inside or the lining is wildly different from the outside and the question is which do you prefer?

So many wonderful details about this hard-worn kimono can be found and it is for this reason that it is recommended.

A tattered beauty.