Summer Kimono (Hito-e) with Heron and Reeds

Herons have been one of the favorite birds of Japanese artists and poets since ancient times, as they are common sights in the rice paddies. Their favorite time to catch food is at dusk— standing still in the shallows or in the reeds along the bank, the herons' varying shades of gray, blue, and black blend perfectly into the fading light and deepening shadows. Reeds, which grow along shorelines and riverbanks throughout Japan, have often inspired melancholy autumnal poetry. Sometimes, as in this summer garment, they are coupled with herons or egrets, a design inspired by paintings and woodblock prints. The reeds and the heron on this robe were reserved in white on the dark background. Details of the grasses, feathers, and beak were painted in, and the eyes and crests at the tops of the birds’ heads were enhanced with touches of embroidery.