Summer Kimono (Hitoe)
About 1900–1916
Silk, plain weave self-patterned by rows
of gauze crossings (yoko-ro); resist-
dyed (shibori) and stenciled
(kata yûzen-zome)
141.9 × 126.4 cm (55.9 × 49.8 in)
SEE IT IN PERSON
Not currently on view
In the collection of Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · as of July 2026
Discussion
FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG
This hitoe (an unlined summer kimono) is patterned with leaves and water irises, a traditional Japanese motif. The use of bold colors, stylized natural forms, and curvilinear renderings alludes to the possible influence of Art Nouveau. The layered textures from both the gauze weave and the resulting undulation of the shibori technique contrasts with the flat stenciling technique applied to the surface, giving the appearance not of the actual flowers, but of their reflection in rippling water.
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