The kosode is a traditional Japanese garment that is often thought of as a kimono prototype. Its basic style is similar to a kimono, but it is looser in fit and has different sleeve and obi-sash widths. Kosode and modern kimono can be compared and contrasted in this exhibition, which starts off with life-size recreations of Momoyama (1573-1603) and Edo Period (1603-1867) kosode.
On display are around 180 kosode, including five that are designated as Important Cultural Properties. Some of the garments on show are drawn from the superb collections of three long-established kimono shops — Matsuzakaya, Marubeni and Chiso; till Dec. 11.
The Museum of Kyoto; (075) 222-0888; Sanjo Takakura, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto; 3-min. walk east of Karasuma Oike Station (Exit 5), Karasuma or Tozai lines. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (Fri., till 7:30 p.m.) ¥1,200. Closed Mon. www.bunpaku.or.jp.
