This listing is for a vintage Japanese wedding kimono called a kakeshita - the layer worn under the heavier uchikake - but are just as elegant.  Kakeshita are typically lighter weight, with a lighter padding at the hem, a yuzen-dyed rather than woven silk, and usually have a "less patterned" area at the waist where the obi would be tied.

This kakeshita features kiji (pheasant) birds amongst bright blooming florals. Pheasants depicted on kimono typically symbolize prosperity, abundance, and promise. Beautiful Japanese-red silk provides the background for the rich blue peonies. Each element is expertly shaded to create depth and many of the blossoms have gold couching embroidery. 

The pattern was created with the yuzen technique - a complicated stencil and brush-painted process that calls on dozens of skilled artisans to create. See videos below on the yuzen technique and how wedding kimono are worn or displayed.

If you plan to hang this kimono, we do offer wooden display rods - see tab at right. If you plan to wear this kimono and need a traditional obi, browse our Fukuro Obi for Sale page.