This listing is for a vintage Japanese kimono from the Fuller Collection (see details of that below).

This kimono features the "mirrored hem" patterning that is typical of early Taisho Era (1912-1926) or late Meiji Period. The patterning on each side of the front lower hem mirrors the other, even though one side would be completely hidden when the kimono is worn. This style gave way to brighter, extended patterning across the entire hemline that we see in tomesode kimono.

The base color is a dusty berry purple and the dyes used on the florals are soft and muted. The design of large florals seems to bloom upwards from the hem, which features a light blue water motif. There are other traditional elements as well - cranes in flight, shakuhachi flutes, folding fans, oak leaves, and more.

Delicate silk embroidery was added to accent the featured florals as well as some of the leaves - see photos. Five ivy crests indicate this is a formal kimono, appropriate for weddings and other events of that caliber.

Red silk lining for the sleeves and bodice and the floral patterning extends around to the inside lower lining - another indicator of a late Meiji/early Taisho Period design.

We suspect it was made in the Taisho Period (1912-1926) because of the unique patterning, design placement, dyework and red lining - but it is in such excellent condition that it is hard to believe it would be almost 100 years old. There is a bit of fading in one area on the back - see last photo - but would not be an issue if the kimono is displayed with the front showing.

We do offer hanging rods for displaying kimono - click here to browse the options.

The Fuller Collection – originally over 2000 kimono – was the passion and pride of Richard Fuller of Chicago, IL and Wabasha,MN. Richard served as a US Marine in post-war Japan, and there began his love of and appreciation for vintage Japanese kimono – especially wedding kimono. Richard saw that the mastery and artisanship of traditional Japanese textile techniques was waning – threatening to die out altogether – which sparked his mission to promote this industry and preserve what he could. Click here to read one of his interviews.

Together with his wife Janith, Richard invested in thousands of kimono and obi, opening Wind Whisper West, a kimono gallery in Wabasha, MN in 2003. Most of the collection was sold there, but several hundred pieces remain. Richard passed in 2020, and Janith has consigned the remainder of the collection to Kyoto Kimono to offer through our website. We are honored and proud to be stewarding the Fuller Collection as each piece finds its new home and continues to bring wonder and beauty to admirers around the world.