This silk kimono features a bold, high-contrast composition. The garment is defined by wide, alternating vertical bands of sun-drenched yellow and deep cobalt blue, creating a rhythmic architectural foundation. Overlaid on this primary palette is a large-scale, silkscreened pattern of stylized bamboo leaves rendered in crisp white with dark, graphic outlines. Sporadic vertical metallic thread highlights are woven into the fabric, catching the light to add a restrained shimmer to the garment's surface.
The bamboo motif is a classical symbol of strength, flexibility, and resilience, traditionally associated with the ability to bend without breaking. In this design, the traditional botanical imagery is transformed by the avant-garde use of vertical stripes—a motif known as tatejima—and a saturated, modern color scheme. This piece reflects the innovative spirit of the Showa era, where industrial printing techniques and bold Western-influenced color palettes were used to reimagine traditional auspicious symbols for a contemporary fashion context.
Despite several small areas of discoloration, it remains in very good condition, measuring 49 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end by 59 inches in height (124 cm by 150 cm).