S07 → N400

The Spike of Fascinating & Unexpected





SPIKE 39
→ KIMONO PATTERN.



© 1. - 10. Smithsonian Libraries and Archives — Ueno, Seikō (上野清江.), Yachigusa (八千草). 

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A kimono is a traditional Japanese garment characterised by its long, wide sleeves and wrap-around design. It is typically made from silk or other high-quality fabrics and is worn by both men and women on special occasions such as weddings, festivals, and ceremonies. The kimono is traditionally worn with the left side wrapped over the right side, but there’s one important exception: when dressing the deceased for burial, the right side is wrapped over the left. This reversal is a significant cultural detail in Japan and is strictly observed.

The kimono consists of several components, including a rectangular body, wide sleeves called “sode”, and a sash or belt known as an “obi,” which is used to secure the garment around the waist. The length and style of the sleeves, collar, and obi can vary depending on the occasion, gender, and personal preference. Traditionally, the patterns and colours of a kimono indicate the season and the occasion for which it is worn. For example, cherry blossom (“sakura”) motifs are popular in spring, while autumn leaves (“momiji”) are featured in kimonos worn in the fall. Additionally, the way a kimono is worn can indicate a person’s marital status. An unmarried woman typically wears a furisode, a kimono with long, flowing sleeves, which symbolises her availability for marriage. In contrast, a married woman wears a kimono with shorter sleeves, signifying her married status.

While the kimono has ancient roots dating back to the Heian period (794-1185), it continues to be an important symbol of Japanese identity and tradition in modern times. One particularly intricate technique used in kimono-making is “yūzen”, a method of hand-painting intricate designs onto fabric using rice paste as a resist. This process allows artisans to create highly detailed and colourful motifs, often inspired by nature, folklore, or traditional Japanese aesthetics.




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