Kimono: Images of Culture 1915-1950 in the Khalili Collections

Highlighting many examples of previously unseen and unusual garments from one of the preeminent kimono collections, this dazzling volume explores the Khalili Collection of kimono’s powerful selection of modernity and propaganda pieces from the first half of the 20th century.

One of the most recognizable aspects of Japanese culture, the kimono was once a vital everyday garment worn by adults and children across Japan. While the basic form of the T-shaped, straight-seamed, front-wrapping kimono has changed very little over the centuries, the onset of the twentieth century ushered in a variety of influences, including western-style clothing; a desire for practicality and comfort; the emergence of Japanese identity in the wake of World War II; pop culture; and high fashion.