Antique Japanese Formal Kimono – Black Habutae Silk Maru ni Kyūmai Sasa Montsuki - Takenaka Samurai Clan

This authentic antique Japanese formal kimono is a rare example of traditional men’s ceremonial attire. Crafted in Japan from black habutae silk, it is adorned with five family crests (kamon) featuring the distinguished Maru ni Kyūmai Sasa (丸に九枚笹) motif. The presence of five kamon identifies this garment as a montsuki, the highest level of formality in classical Japanese dress.

Kamon – Maru ni Kyūmai Sasa (丸に九枚笹)

The Maru ni Kyūmai Sasa kamon depicts nine bamboo leaves enclosed within a circle. Bamboo (sasa) has long symbolized resilience, integrity, and adaptability in Japanese culture, while the number nine represents completeness and enduring vitality. The circular form (maru) signifies protection, unity, and continuity of lineage.

This kamon is historically associated with the Takenaka samurai clan, a lineage renowned for strategic intelligence rather than sheer military force.

Historical Figure – Takenaka Shigeharu (Takenaka Hanbei)

Takenaka Shigeharu (竹中 重治, 1544–1579), commonly known as Takenaka Hanbei (半兵衛), was a celebrated samurai and one of the most respected strategists of Japan’s Sengoku period. He served as the chief military adviser to Toyotomi Hideyoshi, contributing significantly to the campaigns that led to the unification of Japan.

Born into the Takenaka clan of Mino Province, Hanbei became famous for his ability to achieve victory through strategy, foresight, and psychological insight. His bloodless seizure of Inabayama Castle remains a classic example of intelligence prevailing over force. Calm, analytical, and restrained, he embodied the archetype of the strategist-samurai.

Although his life was short, Takenaka Hanbei’s influence was profound. His legacy continues to symbolize wisdom, adaptability, and disciplined restraint — qualities perfectly echoed in the symbolism of the bamboo kamon adorning this kimono.

Material & Craftsmanship

This kimono is made from black habutae silk, a fabric traditionally reserved for formal garments. Habutae silk is prized for its smooth texture, light weight, subtle sheen, and elegant drape. The garment follows classical tailoring principles and reflects the refined austerity of formal Japanese attire.

• Fabric: Black Habutae Silk
• Style: Montsuki (formal kimono with family crests)
• Crests: 5 Kamon – Maru ni Kyūmai Sasa
• Origin: Japan
• Period: Antique (Showa era or earlier)

Dimensions (Flat Laid)

• (A) Sleeve-to-sleeve width: 128 cm
• (B) Overall height: 132 cm
• (C) Body width: 61 cm
• (D) Sleeve height: 52 cm
• (E) Sleeve width: 32 cm

Please note: As an antique garment, minor variations, gentle patina, or subtle signs of age are natural and are considered part of its authenticity and charm.

Cultural & Collectible Value

This kimono is ideal for collectors of authentic Japanese antiques, practitioners of traditional budō or ninjutsu, or anyone seeking a meaningful piece of Japanese cultural heritage. It may be worn for formal cultural contexts with proper styling, or displayed in a dojo, gallery, or private collection.

• Antique kimono and textile collectors
• Traditional martial arts practitioners
• Dojo, museum, or cultural interior display
• Scholarly or reference collections

Condition & Uniqueness

This is a one-of-a-kind antique item. Once sold, it cannot be restocked. The condition is consistent with age and careful preservation. Additional close-up images or details can be provided upon request.