a silk lenght, Japan, Taisho (c.1920), cm 384x37. a cloth length, still with its original end finishes, made from silk of highest quality and possibly intended as fabric for an ‘obi’ (a sash worn with kimonos to enhance the shape of the body and keep the robe closed). What’s more astonishing – though – is the visual impact its design makes to the eye when seen in flesh. The meandering red ‘belt’ much resembles the embroidered motifs found in coats from the Ainu people (the very original ‘native Japanese’, one could say) of northern Hokkaido, and provides a nice contrast with the decorated black background. Almost mint condition. Simply a great thing.