[Kimono print designs] Shoun Ogawa
Pine Cloud Pattern. Furisode nobu.
Kyoto, Yamada Unsōdō, Meiji 34 [1901]. Folio leporello (27.0 x 36.7 cm). 24 pages, of which 20 with pochoir prints, several heightened with silver or gold, and four plain. Printed boards, illustrated with silver, flying cranes, and a large title label.
Catalogue of patterns for kimonos, in particular high quality silk Furisode kimonos, which are kimonos in the most formal style, usually worn by young, unmarried women. This type of kimono is characterized by its long, swinging sleeves. It is traditionally worn at celebrations, in particular Coming of Age ceremonies (Seijin no Hi), as well as in weddings. The patterns are mainly based on flowers and show a stunning variability in colours and shapes. This is the first of, ultimately, a set of four volumes. All are extremely rare. Boards worn, internally, however, clean, unmarked, the colouring bright.