Kimonos & Textiles

Japanese Kimonos and Textiles – Wearable Art

As opposed to western art, the Japanese do not distinguish between works of art on canvas, paper or fabric. In fact, the majority of traditional Japanese paintings were created on the finest hand woven silks, and often incorporated threads of hand spun gold and silver. By taking a look at antique Japanese textiles, we are offered a glimpse into the world of the Japanese upper class of centuries past, as all Japanese textiles, whether worn or used as decoration in the home, illustrate such personal items as family crests and symbols that once held specific meaning to the owner of the artwork.

The Japanese kimono, or “the thing worn,” was a traditional garment for men, women and children, and from the 8th to the 12th century it was the official garment of Japan; that is, it was absolutely mandatory during the Shogun rule, and one had to follow the Shoguns' strict dress code. More than just an item of clothing, a kimono could speak volumes about the wearer. For example, the length of a woman's sleeve indicated whether or not she was married, and each element of a kimono's design revealed a person's gender, status, age and personal taste. The upper class commissioned famous artists to create their kimonos, and at one point these members of the elite maintained an ongoing contest over who could boast the most elaborate kimonos by the most famous of artists.

Today, to find an original, hand woven, hand painted silk kimono is extremely rare, due to the fact that only members of the Imperial court were permitted to wear the posh fabric. Have a look through our fine collection of Japanese kimonos and antique textiles today. You may come across an extremely rare piece, and if not, then an affordable replica to display in any room.