The white spotted parts of the pattern on this striking red kimono were created using a method called <i>shibori</i>. In this technique tiny sections of cloth are bound with thread prior to being dyed. The colour does not penetrate the protected areas. After the dye is dry the binding is carefully removed. <i>Shibori</i> was costly and labour intensive and was usually combined with embroidery as in this kimono. The dense pattern of peonies, chrysanthemums and hollyhocks combined with a key fret pattern is characteristic of kimono worn by women of samurai families. The samurai were the ruling military class of Japan in the Edo period (1615-1868).