Kinsha silk, Japan, Taisho, cm69x32. We already reported how, from the late nineteenth century onwards, the sumptuary laws of feudal Japan were lifted, allowing everyone in the country equal rights to wear silk or bright colours. This is a consequence of such a freedom. In fact, it is a kinsha (very fine crepe) silk fabric, of exceptionally soft touch and gorgeous design and colours. Its design hints at an early Taisho (c.1915) origin, and this fabric was – given high costs associated with production of ‘kinsha’ silk – possibly part of a valuable girl kimono. In excellent condition, this is a fragment of a past Japan. Just lovely.