Kimono Art: Unveiling the Vintage Patterns of Moyō Bijutsu Benran

Explore beautiful Kimono Art with Hironobu Asai’s Moyō Bijutsu Benran. A collection of vintage kimono pattern designs that tell a story of Japanese textile heritage.

These prints are from the “Moyō Bijutsu Benran,” a gem from 1893 by Hironobu Asai. This book is full of stunning traditional Japanese textile designs, focusing on the beautiful patterns found on Kimonos.

This complements our extensive collection of vintage Japanese prints, including traditional Japanese patterns and designs and vintage art prints from the Shin-Bijutsukai.

Kimono Art: A Brief Overview

Kimonos are more than just traditional Japanese clothing; they’re wearable art. Each pattern and design has a story, often with symbolic meanings. Hironobu Asai’s “Moyō Bijutsu Benran” captures these intricate patterns, looking into Japan’s rich textile heritage.

What Makes These Patterns Special

The patterns in “Moyō Bijutsu Benran” are not just decorative; they reflect the social and cultural values of the Meiji period.

1. Floral Designs: These are a staple in Kimono art. Designs like chrysanthemums symbolise longevity, while cherry blossoms represent the fleeting nature of life.
2. Geometric Patterns: These designs use repetition and symmetry, creating a sense of harmony and balance. They are visually striking and culturally significant.
3. Nature Motifs: Birds, waves, and other natural elements frequently appear in these patterns, emphasising the connection between the wearer and the natural world.

Why This Book is Important

“Moyō Bijutsu Benran” is more than an art book; it’s a historical document. It provides insights into the aesthetics and values of the Meiji period, a time when Japan was modernising while staying true to its traditions. For anyone interested in Kimono art, this book is a valuable resource that preserves the elegance of vintage Kimono patterns.

These prints will appeal to a wide range of enthusiasts. Art lovers will appreciate the intricate designs and cultural significance, while historians value insights into Meiji-era aesthetics.

Designers and crafters can draw inspiration from these timeless patterns, and vintage art collectors will find them valuable additions to their collections. If you enjoy traditional Japanese patterns and designs or vintage art prints from the Shin-Bijutsukai, you’ll love exploring the beautiful kimono patterns in “Moyō Bijutsu Benran.”

How To Download The Kimono Art Patterns

All the kimono prints are in the Public Domain. Click on the title above the Kimono art you want, and a higher-resolution image will appear in a new tab. You can then print or save that image.

Kimono Illustrations Side Sleeves 1 to 10

Kimono Art 1: Flying Birds

You can find some wonderful Kono Bairei Japanese bird and flower prints on the site.

Kimono Art 2: Purple Kimono Pattern

Royalty and Nobility: In Japan, purple has long been associated with royalty and nobility. During the Heian period (794-1185), only members of the imperial family and high-ranking officials were permitted to wear purple Kimonos, symbolising power and prestige.

Kimono Pattern 3: White Kimono

Colour Significance: Colours in Kimono designs are carefully chosen for their meanings. For instance, red is associated with protection and happiness, while white signifies purity and mourning.

Vintage Kimono Illustration 4 – Flower Nature Scene

Kimono Print 5 – Side View Flowers

Vintage Kimono Print 6: Blue with Clouds

Kimono Print 7: Side View With Tree Design

Front of the Kimono Art Prints

Kimono Art 8- Flowers -Lilac

Front Kimono Pattern 9: Blue Flowers

Kimono Art 10 – White Kimono Leaves

Front Kimono Print 11: Flowers and Blue Triangles

Kimono Front Print 12: Leaves

Front Kimono Print 13 – Village Houses

Kimono and Status: In feudal Japan, the type of fabric, pattern, and number of layers in a Kimono could signify the wearer’s social status. Samurai and nobility often had Kimonos with elaborate designs and expensive fabrics.

Front Print 14: Birds And Leaves

Back of The Kimono Art Prints

Kimono Art Print 15: Blue Kimono Back

Kimono Print 16: Flowers and Water

Back Kimono Art Print 17 – Blue with flowers

Kimono Print 18: Green with Village Scene

Historical Influence: The designs in vintage Kimonos often reflect historical events and cultural shifts. For example, incorporating Western floral patterns during the Meiji period (1868-1912) showcases Japan’s openness to Western influences.

Kimono Print 19: Back of Kimono with Moon and Clouds

Back Kimono Print 20: Blue back with Pink Flowers

Kimono Illustration 21: Back with Flowers and Leaves

Conclusion and More to Explore

We hope you enjoyed diving into the world of vintage Kimono patterns. These beautiful and intricate designs offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich textile history and are a fantastic addition to our collection of vintage Japanese prints.

PictureBoxBlue has even more to offer lovers of Japanese art and vintage textiles. Check out our collection of vintage Japanese prints, including the design patterns from Bijutsu Sekai. These equally captivating designs provide further insight into Japan’s artistic heritage.

If you’re fascinated by the cultural context of these patterns, you’ll love our collection of colourized vintage Japanese photos featuring women in Kimonos. These images bring the past to life and show how these beautiful patterns were worn and cherished.

Explore the stunning woodblock prints of Utagawa Kuniyoshi, which also feature Japanese women in Kimonos.

For those interested in the influence of Japanese design on Western art, our post on William Morris Patterns is a must-read. Morris, a key figure in the Arts and Crafts Movement, was greatly inspired by Japanese aesthetics. His textile designs reflect this influence and offer a Western perspective on traditional Japanese motifs.

Lastly, don’t miss our collection of vintage chintz textile floral patterns and this vibrant collection of folk art embroidery prints.. These vibrant and intricate designs showcase the global exchange of artistic ideas and techniques.

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