This extraordinary woman's silk haori seems like a treasure trove of good luck symbols and intricate motifs. At 50 inches from sleeve-end to sleeve-end and 31 inches in height, this garment is a unique early haori, indicating its significance for a woman of a distinguished family. The combination of bold, closely arranged auspicious motifs creates a powerful and graphic statement.

The symbols incorporated in the design hold various meanings. For instance, 'kakuregasa' represents the hat of invisibility, while 'tsuchi' signifies a mallet that grants the bearer's wishes. 'Magatama', an ancient curved bead, and 'nunobukuro', symbolizing a bag of unlimited wealth, also feature among these motifs. Additionally, 'chouji' represents cloves, 'makimono' signifies scrolls of wisdom and longevity, and 'shippo' involves overlapping circles symbolizing the seven treasures.

The 'shippo' seven-treasures design holds roots in the late Heian period and symbolizes various treasures such as gold, silver, crystal, coral, agate, pearl, and lapis lazuli. Originally derived from Buddhist teachings from India and China, these treasures evolved to symbolize wealth, prosperity, and longevity in Japanese clothing designs during the Muromachi era.

This haori isn't just a garment; it's a rich tapestry of symbolism and cultural significance, echoing the desire for fortune, wealth, and prosperity for its wearer.