Draped across the front and worn with a sash (obi), the kimono is a typical Japanese garment for men and women. Its symmetrical, flat cut lends itself to be decorated with imaginative designs, by printing, dying and embroidering the fine fabrics. The silk textile industry was the first great motor of the Japanese economy during the Meiji period (1868-1912), and kimonos were extremely popular amongst European consumers of the time. Currently, their coloring and elegance are recognized by Japanese society, where men and women still wear them for important ceremonies (coming of age, graduation, marriage, etc.).
This kimono’s blue silk, which is now faded in some parts, still displays its golde thread embroidery, which exemplifies the minogame turtle. This mythical figure, which represents longevity, is considered a protector of the four cardinal directions, together with the tiger dragon and Phoenix bird.