Central Asian Kilims: Affordable Ancient Weaving Linden's offers a broad selection of Kazakh and Turkoman rugs, as well as “Kilims." Kilims are a type of flat woven textile in which the structure and design are one. An older weaving tradition than that of pile rugs, kilims offer a challenging outlet for Central Asia's weavers. The colors of kilims vary widely. Older kilims often have a faded appearance with their designs limited to geometric patterns. Newer weavings mix in subtle pastel colors and more varied designs for Western markets. Once placed in a room, the kilim’s tones look the same wherever you lay it, unaltered by the light source. Stop by Linden's today to see the full selection, or call ahead to our Madison warehouse to set-up an appointment soon.   SW Chinese Vest – Mid-20th Century Finely embroidered vest on dark blue ground with gold dragons. $175.   Henan Skirt – Early-to-Mid-20th Century Finely embroidered silk skirt with couched golden flowers and areas of forbidden stitch. Sold! -   Qing Miao Baby Carrier Finely stitched with green undulating dragon. Sold! -   Forbidden Stitch Hat A very fine example of Qing Forbidden Stitch. Sold! -   Featured Textiles Article: The Japanese Kimono The traditional kimono did not come into being in Japan until the Heian period (794-1192). Before this time, “kimono” was used to refer to all clothing. It was during the Heian period that a straight-line-cut method, which involved cutting pieces of fabric in straight lines and sewing them together, was developed. This technique lead to more generic sizing system, with kimono makers no longer concerned with the wearer's body shape. Straight-line-cut kimonos quickly became the preferred choice of clothing. They were much easier to fold and store and were suitable for all types of weather. Kimono makers used linen for summer kimonos, and the wearer would layer kimonos made from wool or silk during the cold of winter. The main types of formal kimono are: kuro tomesode (black short-sleeved), which is reserved for married women. Many kuro tomesode kimonos include the wearer's five family crests. Iro tomesode (colored short-sleeved) is also reserved for married women and, although less formal than kuro tomesode, includes the five family crests. Shiromuko is a traditional white bridal robe. Furisode kimonos are for single women and are usually very colorful with ornate designs and wide sleeves. Houmongi is more formal version of the furisode kimono. Mofuku kimonos are used only during periods of mourning. Many examples found in the United States date to the late 19th and early- to mid-20th centuries. It was during this period that Japanese artisans were increasingly influenced by foreign cultures. The kimono slowly fell out of favor throughout the 20th century as the Japanese government encouraged people to adopt Western clothing. Government officials and military personnel were required by law to wear Western clothing for official functions. Kimonos are now most commonly seen during specific holidays and celebrations.