This small chirimen (crepe) silk kimono was crafted for a girl, likely for either the "ohichiya" naming day ceremony on the 7th night after birth or the miyamairi Shinto shrine initiation ceremony held approximately one month after birth. Its measurements are approximately 34 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 36 inches in height, or about 86 centimeters by 91 centimeters.

What's remarkable is the extremely rare and unusual art deco design stenciled onto this child's kimono. Typically, ceremonial garments of this nature display traditional motifs. The presence of art deco elements indicates an openness to new artistic ideas by the girl's parents or grandparents. While Japanese artists influenced the introduction of art deco in the West, the artistry on this kimono appears to have been partly influenced by art developments in Europe and the U.S.

This artwork is featured on page 358 of Art Kimono: Aesthetic Revelations of Japan, 1905-1960. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

‍