Decorative Techniques
01
Paste-resist (yūzen) dyeing
The remarkable graduated colors this technique allows, as evidenced in the peony flowers and layers of mist in the lower back panel, lend the scene a sumptuous painterly feel.
02
Embroidery
The courtly palanquins (a reference to the Tale of Genji (Genji monogatari) are richly detailed in embroidery. The technique also appears as small green embroidered dots on the tree trunk to represent moss.
03
Kata-kanoko
The circular decoration of stenciled imitation tie-dyeing (kata-kanoko) decorates some of the colorful clusters of pines.
04
Yūzen dyeing & embroidery
The wood grain patterning on the bridge is made by yūzen dyeing. The embroidered white and purple irises next to it alludes to the famous bridge, Yatsuhashi (Eight Bridges), from the classic Heian-period text, Tales of Ise.
About this kimono
Thehe three main techniques for decorating kimono are tie-dyeing (shibori), paste-resist dyeing (yūzen), and embroidery (shishū). A kimono with a combination of these techniques is considered to be of high value and quality. Since they are applied cumulatively during the production of a kimono, there is an order to their execution. For example, the artisan who is working on the tie-dye base begins the creative process of decorating the garment, but is also mindful that this area will feature some other decorative technique, such as gold leaf or embroidery, subsequently added on top. Chiso’s designer is responsible for communicating with each of the individual artisans to ensure they understand their roles, and that the design’s vision is sustained and realized.