This swatch book is an inspiring visual tour of elegant fabric design using beautiful historic kimono remnants from Japan's Showa Period (1926-1989). More than 400 photographs and detailed captions provide information on motif identification, Japanese history and cultural traditions. The book is organized around favorite Japanese motifs, including cherry blossoms, peonies, maple leaves, bamboo shoots, waves, and clouds. It will be a source of ideas and inspiration for collectors, designers, quilters, and historians. A glossary of related terms, antique fabric resources, and a substantial bibliography point the way to further reading and study.