This chirimen (crepe) silk uchikake wedding robe boasts twenty-five meticulously embroidered minogame, showcasing an exceptional display of craftsmanship. The opulence of dyes, silks, extensive metallic embroidery, and the intricate design strongly suggest creation by highly skilled artists for a distinguished samurai family. Likely forming the middle piece of a three-robe wedding set, the red color symbolizes the bride's assimilation into the groom's family and bestows wishes for a radiant future.

The embroidered minogame shells exhibit a blend of gold and gold-silver mixtures, highlighted not only on the main exterior but also on the interior and the padded hem, showcasing exceptional couching techniques. Additionally, five family crests are intricately couched in gold thread, while the beni red sha silk inner lining reflects the akahime (red princess) attire worn by young samurai women of noble birth. This specific shade of red symbolizes concealed passion within noble lineage.

Measuring 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 63 inches (160 cm) in height, this robe embodies a traditional and symbolic elegance, embodying the cultural significance and artistry reserved for ceremonial attire within the samurai culture.

This artwork is featured on pages 374-375 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.

The piece is also featured on page 136 of the July-August 2017 edition of Arts of Asia.

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