Width 19cm  x Height 14cm  x Depth at base 6 cm, at top 1cm 

A bold geometric repeating ‘matsu’ design covers the kimono. Matsu, the Pine Tree, is believed to live for 100 years. It is a hardy plant that symbolises strength and long life. Samurai often planted these trees: it was believed that the long needle-like leaves, Matsuba, protected them from demons. There are a number of different forms that the motif takes, from very angular to mushroom shaped: these depict the age of the tree and the whether it is in blossom. The pattern is printed on a chirimen silk kimono, which has a slightly rough surface.