This silk summer crepe (ro) obi dates to the late Taisho or early Showa period (circa 1930). Measuring 14 inches by 150 inches (36 cm x 381 cm), the textile was part of the distinguished collection of Dr. Charles E. Mullin, a textile chemist who amassed a significant archive of regional garments during his travels in the 1920s and early 1930s. The piece is in excellent condition.

The garment is crafted from a deep black silk featuring the semi-transparent Ro weave, which uses horizontal openwork stripes to ensure breathability during Japan's humid summers. The lower portion of the obi features a masterful hand-painted and embroidered landscape. This lush composition includes white-capped pine branches (matsu), delicate purple wisteria (fuji), and large, creamy white chrysanthemums (kiku). At the base, a stylized stream in lavender and grey meanders through the floral arrangement, accompanied by a graceful crane, a traditional symbol of longevity.

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