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Boy's long-sleeved kimono
Boy's long-sleeved kimono

Boy's long-sleeved kimono

Place of OriginJapan
PeriodMeiji period (1868-1912)
CultureJapanese
MaterialsCotton with freehand resist-dyed decoration
DimensionsH. 40 1/2 in x W. 34 in, H. 102.9 cm x W. 86.4 cm
Credit LineGift of Gloria Granz Gonick
Object numberF2004.23.45
DepartmentJapanese Art
ClassificationsTextiles
On View
Not on view
More Information

染分地牡丹獅子(石橋)波文様振袖

This padded kimono of dyed cotton would have been worn by a young boy for festive occasions. It is decorated with a pictorial design of rushing waves together with lions and peonies, evoking an auspicious play of the Noh theater entitled Shakkyo (The Stone Bridge).

Children's kimono often displayed motifs with celebratory or lucky symbolism.

Notice the five white circles on the chest, back, and sleeves of this garment. These areas were left unfinished so that the family crest of the wearer could be added. The fact that the crests are still blank on this kimono tells us that it probably never was used.