Hitoe kosode, kimono with themes alluding to eight Noh theatre plays
late Edo period
Medium
gauze satin silk, paste resist dye, embroidery, gold thread
Measurements
167.0 cm (centre back) 124.0 cm (cuff to cuff)
Credit Line
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased with funds donated by Jennifer Lempriere and Michael Pithie, 2024
Gallery location
Not on display
About this work
Hitoe is a light kimono with a lining, worn in spring and autumn. This highly decorated example displays the sophisticated tastes of its wearer, most likely a member of the educated samurai class with a passion for Noh theatre. Pictorial details reference plays: Hachinoki (Potted Trees) is represented by the thatched hut and pine trees in large pots; Kosode Soga is represented by an archer’s hat and arrows; Kakitsubata (Irises) is represented by the zigzag bridge over an iris pond; Shakkyō (Stone Bridge) is represented by peony flowers and a dancing shishi lion dog, and Kogō (The Courtier) is represented by the bamboo garden gate.