Terminology
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Kimono - 着物 Kimono and Its Origin The kimono is one of Japan’s most iconic symbols that feature our Japanese culture. Kimono originated as an undergarment. In old days kimono was a robe called the Kosode (literally, “small sleeve openings”). The Kosode first came into its own as an outer robe in medieval Japan during the Muromachi period (1392–1573). It was decorated accordingly with lavish dyed, embroidered, and gold or silver patterns. ITEM |
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Kikko Pattern - 亀甲文 Kikko pattern, the hexagonal pattern was brought from the Eastern Asia, through China to Japan. Since the pattern looks like a tortoiseshell, it’s believed to bring longevity. |
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Obi - 織帯 An Obi is the wide sash-like belt (usually silk) that is worn over the kimon above the hips. Woven obi are generally considered to be superior to dyed obi. |
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Tabane noshi mon - 束ね熨斗文（のし） Noshi are the ceremonial folded paper decorations attached to gifts that are given to express 'good wishes'. Bundles (tabane) of narrow string-like strips of dried abalone are tied into the paper decoration much as ribbon is tied into a bow on a Western gift. As noshi form a pleasing design and represent congratulations and celebration, they are a frequent motif woven into kimonos and obis. |
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Matsukawa shishi mon - 松皮菱文（まつかわびし） Matsukawa shishi motif is popular kimono pattern from the Edo period when the Shoguns ruled Japan (1603-1867). It resembles the peeled shape of a pine trunk. |
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Odoshige mon - 威毛文（おどしげ） Odoshige is a kimono motif that expresses the armor of warlords (daimyo) and their retainer-knights (samurai). Made with brilliant colours to cover the sleeves and abdomen of the armor to distinguish the warrior and inspire awe on the battlefield.
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Rangiku mon - 乱菊文 Rangiku motif is a flower pattern of orchids and chrysanthemums that represents autumn and expresses a sense of the season. Rangiku represents a gorgeousness that is reflected in the brilliant colours of autumn. |