Yellow-ground kimono with ikat (kasuri) pattern c. early 20th century

This yellow-ground kimono, bearing an ikat or 'kasuri' pattern, was made by an anonymous artist. Ikat is a painstaking resist-dyeing technique that involves binding and dyeing sections of the yarns before weaving, allowing for intricate patterns to emerge as the fabric is created. Here, the texture and weight of the cloth speak to the labor involved in its production. The slight blurring of the pattern, characteristic of ikat, gives the kimono a soft, almost dreamlike quality. The cultural significance of this piece lies in its embodiment of Japanese textile traditions, and in the implicit commentary around the value of handcraft. While perhaps not considered 'high art' in the traditional sense, the skill and artistry evident in this kimono challenge conventional distinctions. This garment offers a potent reminder of the human touch embedded in even the most functional of objects.