Base fabric: figured silk (rinzu) with very subtle 1/2/1/2 vertical wavy column pattern

Size style: Naga-haori

Family crests (mon) present: none

Dimensions: 50 inches (127 cm) from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 37 inches (94 cm) in height

Serene and evocative aesthetics mark this piece, with its exquisite freehand painting and batik work, characterized by a minimalist design that captures the essence of a bamboo grove. The design features stylized bamboo leaves, rendered in soft shades of green and blue, scattered across a textured, beige background. The leaves are depicted with delicate brushstrokes, suggesting a sense of movement and tranquility. The background is divided into sections by broad, horizontal and vertical bands of a reddish-brown color, creating a geometric framework that adds structure and visual interest to the design. The texture of the beige sections evokes the impression of aged paper or a weathered wall, contributing to the overall organic and wabi-sabi feel of the garment. The color palette is muted and harmonious, dominated by earthy tones of beige, brown, and soft greens and blues. The colors are reminiscent of natural elements, such as bamboo, earth, and sky, creating a sense of calm and connection to nature. In terms of influence, this haori's design is deeply rooted in traditional Japanese aesthetics. The depiction of bamboo, a symbol of strength, flexibility, and prosperity, is a recurring motif in Japanese art and literature. The minimalist composition, the use of negative space, and the emphasis on subtle textures are all characteristic of traditional Japanese design principles, particularly those associated with Zen Buddhism and the concept of wabi-sabi, which embraces imperfection, transience, and the beauty of natural materials. The geometric framework created by the reddish-brown bands could be seen as a stylized representation of traditional Japanese architectural elements, such as shoji screens or fusuma doors, further grounding the design in Japanese aesthetics.

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