A Hand Dyed Shibori Yukata: Beautiful Example of Arimatsu Dyeing

early twentieth century
shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 53" x 49", 134.75 cm x 124.5 cm

This indigo dyed cotton kimono is of a casual, unlined type called a yukata; yukata are often worn for summer evening strolls or for relaxing at home, at a hot spring or when staying as a guest at a traditional inn.

The shibori dyed cotton cloth from which this yukata was made was certainly dyed in Arimatsu, one of Japan's leading shibori production centers. The pleated, dyed lines are irregularly spaced and the spare, blue-on-white patterning has a subtle yet strong presence.

Even though this is a man's yukata it can be also worn by women, too--and this hand stitched garment is still very wearable with a lot of life in it. The condition is very good and used with no noticeable flaws except for age.

This is a really nice looking old shibori dyed yukata of a type that is harder and harder to find in Japan these days.

Recommended.