Katabira Furisode, summer kimono with falling snow scene
(early 19th century-mid 19th century)

• JAPANESE

Celebrating their recently established financial power, the Edo-period merchant class took great pride in appreciating the subtle nuances of seasonal themes, as can be seen in this katabira furisode, a lightweight summer kimono for an unmarried girl. The decoration on this garment features snow falling diagonally onto a frosty landscape festooned with bamboo, rocks and plum trees bearing the first blossoms of spring – a visual pun intended to evoke a cooling sensation for the kimono’s wearer during the hot summer months.