Obi Sash Collection

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman with mirrors
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman, masseur
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman, parasol
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese women playing game
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman, hair down
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman with pipe
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese dancers
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese women, a meal
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese writing, tea stove
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese geisha
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese musician
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman and flower
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman and child
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese tea house girl
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese women eating
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese women, flowers
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman, kago
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman sleeping
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese musicians
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese woman spinning thread
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Late 19th century - young Japanese women
Vintage 19th century studio portrait, Japan

Japanese Lady
A Japanese lady in a kimono and obi reads a book at a low desk with a single tulip on it, circa 1930. (Photo by FPG/Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

Japanese Kimono
circa 1875: A Japanese woodblock print of a woman wearing a silk kimono and obi with wooden sandals and a broad-brimmed hat. Original Artwork: Drawn by Gillot (Photo by Hulton Archive/Getty Images)

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In the late 19th century, the obi sash played a significant role in the lives of young Japanese women. It was not just a mere accessory; it represented tradition, elegance, and cultural identity. One captivating image from this era depicts a young Japanese woman adorned with mirrors on her obi sash. The reflective surfaces catch glimpses of her surroundings as she gracefully moves through life. Another snapshot reveals a young woman enjoying the soothing touch of a masseur while wearing her intricately tied obi sash. The garment's vibrant colors complement her relaxed expression, showcasing both beauty and comfort. Underneath the shade of a delicate parasol, another young Japanese woman showcases her fashion sense by pairing an exquisite kimono with an elegantly knotted obi sash. Her poise exudes gracefulness as she strolls through picturesque gardens. A group of lively young women engages in friendly competition while playing traditional games. Their colorful kimonos and perfectly tied obi sashes add to their animated expressions, creating an atmosphere filled with laughter and joy. Captivatingly captured is yet another image featuring a young Japanese woman leisurely enjoying her pipe while donning an impeccably styled obi sash. The fusion of traditional attire and modern relaxation creates an intriguing juxtaposition that reflects societal changes during this time period. The artistry continues as we witness mesmerizing performances by talented dancers dressed in stunning kimonos accentuated by their skillfully arranged obi sashes. Their movements synchronize effortlessly with each other, leaving spectators captivated by their gracefulness. Gathering for a meal together, groups of young Japanese women showcase their individual styles through carefully chosen kimonos and meticulously tied obi sashes. As they share stories over delicious food, these garments become symbols of unity among friends. In quiet moments spent writing or tending to tea stoves, these images capture the essence of introspection within Japan's young women.