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This kimono presents a masterful example of meisho-e (famous places pictures) textile design, featuring printed depictions of the twelve Famous Views of Edo scattered across a rich dark olive-green chirimen silk ground. The composition demonstrates the influence of ukiyo-e woodblock print traditions, particularly the celebrated landscape series that popularized scenic views of Japan's capital during the Edo period. The artist has cleverly adapted these iconic vistas—likely including recognizable landmarks such as Mount Fuji, temple grounds, bridges, and seasonal scenes—into irregularly shaped cartouches that appear to float across the kimono's surface like scattered pages from an illustrated guidebook. White cherry blossoms and geometric diamond motifs punctuate the spaces between these scenic vignettes, creating visual rhythm while maintaining the garment's elegant restraint.
The detail images reveal the remarkable technical achievement of translating complex landscape compositions into textile form, with subtle gradations of color and fine linear details that capture the essence of traditional Japanese painting. The depictions appear to be rendered in the classical style, with careful attention to period costume and architectural elements that would have been immediately recognizable to contemporary viewers. This kimono represents the sophisticated cultural literacy expected of its wearer, who would have been well-versed in the literary and artistic associations of these famous locations. The dark olive ground provides a unified backdrop that allows the colorful scenic elements to appear luminous while maintaining overall compositional harmony, reflecting the Japanese aesthetic principle of finding beauty in restrained elegance rather than ostentatious display.
It is in fair to good condition, with noticeable fading primarily on the background areas, especially in the upper front and back portions. The kimono has been altered by shortening it about 4 inches, with the original hem folded and hand-sewn into the inner garment, resulting in wear and a 3.5-inch silk split at the new fold. Additionally, the inner lining shows some small tears. Due to its condition, this kimono is better suited for display as a study or art piece, rather than being worn.
Measuring 48 inches (122 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and standing at 58 inches (147 cm) in height, it showcases five family crests (mon) with a particularly rare motif symbolizing nine stars (hoshi). These stars have associations with the worship of Ursa Major, a practice that originated in the early Heian period and gradually integrated into Buddhist belief, specifically the belief in the protective war deity Myoken.