SOLD Vintage Purple Silk Crepe Maple Leaf Design Silk Lined Kimono

Vintage purple silk crepe kimono with falling maple leaves design, lined in purple tissue silk. Japan has a very rich textile history, with the kimono being a major focus of interest and artistic expression. Meaning 'the thing to wear', the term kimono was first adopted in the mid-19th century. Originally worn by commoners, or as an undergarment by the aristocracy, from the 16th century kimono became the principal item of dress for all classes and both sexes. It is still an enduring symbol of traditional Japanese culture today. The introduction of the concept of the five elements from China to Japan in the 6th century gave colours a cosmological dimension. Fire, water, earth, wood and metal are associated with particular directions, seasons, virtues and colours. Colours also have strong poetic significance. Purple, for example, is a metaphor for undying love, the imagery deriving from the fact that gromwell (murasaki), the plant used to create the dye, has very long roots.  The richest source for kimono motifs comes from the natural world. Flowers such as peonies, wisteria, bush clover and hollyhocks frequently appear on garments. Many of them, for example cherry blossom, chrysanthemums and maple leaves, have a seasonal significance. In part from: Kimono, Produced as part of Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk V & A London.
This beautiful vintage kimono is in very good-excellent condition. Fits like a size small-medium.
 In excellent wearable condition.  All our clothing is dry cleaned and inspected for condition and is ready to wear. Any condition issues will be noted. For visual comparison our mannequin is a size 4.
     Please check the measurements provided below and compare with your own measurements for the best possible fit! Please contact us if you have any questions about this item or need more photos.
     Measurements are in inches:
Bust
Hip
Shoulder back
Sleeve length
Center neck to hem back