A study of the tacit knowledge on the design of kimono patterns from Japanese painting

Abstract

One of the most important characteristics of the Nishijin obi (a traditional Japanese textile product) has been to express unique aesthetics in Japanese paintings by making full use of weaving techniques for imparting a three-dimensional effect. However, weaving today tries to distinguish itself merely through colors and patterns, losing the true depth inherent in weaving. An obi can emphasize the beauty of a kimono through its simple design, and a kimono can bring out the personality of the person dressed in it. The types of weaving that enable such design are the three main weaving styles of Nishijin weaving. We will present the basics of these techniques, and how they are applied in order to realize the obi design that expresses unique aesthetic in Japanese paintings.