Japanese antique black formal winter silk kimono hand dyed and finely painted along the bottom with a powerful predator hawk or falcon on rockery preparing to attack a much smaller chidori (plover) flying above churning water. The scene is set against a landscape of pine branches on a pale celadon background. Symbols of military strength, Japanese artists historically painted raptors for the wealthy nobility and samurai warriors who ruled Japan. The chidori over waves motif symbolizes the overcoming of adversity. The fine deep cobalt blue silk lining is lightly padded. Five white “mon” (family crests) are along the top. Early 20th century. Measures about 35 1/2” long (excluding collar) by about 33 1/2” across (sleeve tip to sleeve tip). Very good overall condition. There are a few minor stains, the stitching on one sleeve has come apart from the lining in one area, and there is a tiny tear in the silk at the shoulder seam near the collar. From the estate of a World War II veteran in Tucson, Arizona. It has been stored safely away for decades in an air-tight trunk.