For many of us, the word “kimono” immediately conjures up mental images—probably of geisha, the famous artist-entertainers of Japan in their elaborate, traditional dress. However, the word kimono itself has a much broader meaning and encompasses clothing not just for women, but for men, girls, and boys. These garments range from exquisite ceremonial robes to simple everyday clothing, many of which follow the same, simple but sophisticated construction. But, depending upon their ornamentation or materials, these remarkable garments can convey an extraordinary amount of information, from major social movements to the seasons of the year.
This exhibition, organized around several interwoven themes, will feature over one hundred extraordinary kimono dating from the late Edo period (1603-1867) through Shōwa era (1926-1989). It will include examples of furisode, the kimono with beautiful, long sleeves worn by young women or stage performers, and men’s juban, the austere but elegant under-kimono often decorated with mythical scenes or wrestlers.
The exhibition will also explore the manufacture of these incredible garments, from the weaving of the tanmono—the long, narrow bolt of cloth of which they are sewn, to the creation of the decorative designs which ornament them. In addition to finely woven damasks or brocades, many kimono feature intricate free-hand painting using a resist process, often combined with superb embroidery using gold-wrapped or even lacquered threads, as well as glorious shibori, which is akin to Western tie-dyeing. Also, the exhibition will incorporate related accessories, including obi—the prized, traditional sashes, as well as Japanese photography, woodblock prints, and decorative arts.
Kimono: The Triumph of Japanese Dress promises to be not only visually stunning, but will give us a rare opportunity to experience a wide range of these extraordinary pieces of clothing. In addition, it will enrich our understanding of an ancient, but ever evolving art form
Access the full Press Release for Kimono: The Triumph of Japanese Dress
Related Programs
Save the dates! More information about these exciting programs is coming soon.
March
- Saturday, March 15 – Shibori Workshop Series
- Sunday, March 16 at 1:00 p.m. – Marly Music Series: Shiho Yamashita of 13 Strings Melody
- Wednesday, March 19 at 10:00 a.m. – Museum Minis with Tombolo Books featuring “Suki’s Kimono” by Chieri Uegaki
- Sunday, March 23 at 2:00 p.m. – Conversation with a Collector: Peter Kuhlmann
- Sunday, March 30 at 2:00 p.m. – Gilded Age Geishas: 19th-Century America’s Obsession with Japan with Annamarie Sandecki
April
- Thursday, April 17 from 6:00–8:00 p.m. – MFA After Hours (21+) with In Between Days
- Sunday, April 27 at 2:00 p.m. – Author Talk with Yuniya Kawamura
May
- Sunday, May 4 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Koinobori Children's Day
- Saturday, May 10
- Ikebana Floral Workshop – 10:00 a.m.
- How to Wear a Kimono with Satomi Hirano – 2:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, May 14 from 10:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. – Homeschool Hours featuring Kimono
- Saturday, May 24 from 2:00 p.m.–3:00 p.m – Marly Music presents Weaving through Time: Cross-Cultural Dialogues in Modern Japanese Music
June
- Saturday, June 7 at 11:00 a.m. – Conversation with a Collector: Sue Castner
*Programs subject to change
MEDIA PARTNER: WUSF: YOUR HOME FOR NPR / WSMR CLASSICAL
FUNDED IN PART BY THE CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG
Featured Images:
Uchikake with Manmaku, c.1900–1940, Silk, Collection of Norma Canelas and William Roth
Obi with Scene Featuring Western Style Houses and Boats,1920s – 1930s, Silk, Collection of Norma Canelas and William Roth
Boy's Kimono with Propaganda Designs, c.1935, Silk, Collection of Norma Canelas and William Roth