Vintage Silk Haori Kimono Robe, Mature Shunga Print, Champagne & Cream

Price available upon request. This piece is currently being reviewed for museum acquisition; serious inquiries from private collectors welcome.

A tribute to the geishas. Champagne silk with a wide cream hem found in Tokyo. Across the back, a classic shunga scene rendered in vibrant color; figures from an old woodblock world, tender and frank. A robe for someone who likes their art a little wicked. Mature artwork, handled with taste. (Censored with cherry blossom stickers).

A traditional haori (not floor length like a traditional kimono) made from silk with contrasting woven trim. The palette (taupe/beige body with pale geometric trim) and construction suggest it was designed more as a fashion garment than a formal traditional kimono. The seasoned antique dealer in Tokyo said the piece is vintage and likely from the late 20th century.

The artwork panel on the back is in the style of Japanese “shunga” (春画 : literally “spring pictures”), which are erotic woodblock prints that were especially popular during the Edo period (1603–1868). Many famous ukiyo-e artists, including Hokusai and Utamaro, created shunga. The style of the figures (soft facial features, hair ornaments, robes, and floral textiles) is very much inspired by that era. The motif is decorative and historical rather than crude.

Age: likely 35 to 45 years, read from the print method and design.

Length: 41in.

Carrying the soft patina that only time can give; significant flaws are always detailed. Some markings on the painted areas.