Stunning Meisen silk ikat design kimono in luxurious violet-mauve on metallic effect burnished gold. Lined with red, ivory and dark cream cotton.

Meisen silk was developed around 1868, and kimono in this fabric became readily available from Japanese department stores from the beginning of the 1900s. The first aniline dye was created in 1856 by William Henry Perkins and was introduced to Japan as early as 1859, having previously been restricted to members of the Imperial Court and high ranking samurai. Perkins' purple was also known as mauveine – later shortened to mauve.

Ideal for lounging around during lockdown, kimonos also make stylish dressing gowns. Their exquisite fabrics and textile designs mean they are wearable works of art, perfect for when galleries and museums reopen and arty events recommence, or as decorative artworks for the home.

One size 10-16. 59 inches/150 cm long. Kimono fabric in very good vintage condition, just a few pin holes to the lining of the robe and sleeve as shown. Matching belt available, upon request.