A Shibori Dyed Cotton Kimono: Judicious Decorative Details

early to mid twentieth century
shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 56 1/2" x 47", 143.5 cm x 119.5 cm

This is an elegant, dark toned--very deep indigo dye that reads as black--cotton kimono that shows judiciously placed shibori dyed design elements on its sleeve tips and around the hem.

These jagged shapes containing the shibori areas refer to a traditional Japanese design motif of stylized pine bark.

The shibori on the sleeves is of a stitched type called mokume or wood grain whereas the shibori on the hem of the garment is of a tied variety. The contrast between the light-toned shibori areas and the darkness of the body of the kimono is simple, elegant and beautiful. The ratio of dark body to light toned decoration recalls in some way formal silk kimono which are black in color with rich design work on the bottom hem.

In good, used condition this is a lovely, wearable garment and one with an especially "Japanese" flair.