This silk miyamairi kimono was designed for a child's coming-of-age ceremony at a Shinto shrine. It showcases a pair of standing red-crested cranes created using the yuzen technique, accentuated with embroidery. Measuring 34 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 41 inches in height (86.5 cm x 104 cm), its design layout, typically for boys' miyamairi kimonos, departs with a background that leans towards a more feminine theme, suggesting it was tailored for a girl.

In Japanese tradition, the red-crested crane symbolizes love, happiness, marital fidelity, and longevity. Despite its rarity, the red-crested crane has become an iconic symbol throughout Japan. The kimono's drawing and yuzen-painting exhibit exceptional artistry, showcasing subtle shading, intricate detailing, and graceful poses, enhancing its elegance.

This artwork is featured on pages 234-239 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.

‍