Samurai silk patterns

[tonydawe]

Hi guys,

I'm in the process of painting Alexandros Miniatures excellent bust of legendary 12th century samurai Minamoto Yoshitune, and I need some help and inspiration for painting the silk garments (hitatare) worn under the armour. Most of the designs I have seen include flowers or geometric patterns that are stylised flowers. Are there any other designs and patterns that could be used?

The period is 12th century, so I am looking for a silk pattern that is from that period and is authentic.

If anyone has any photos or images or links to websites that specialise in this stuff, I would be most grateful. Below is a silk painting of Yoshitune and a photo of a Yoshitune re-enactor.

 

[Mirofsoft]

Perhaps Samurai Archive can be of some help
http://www.samurai-archives.com/ ( they have also a blog )

 

[Mark S]

Tony, grab a copy of this book and the others in the series if you can they're very useful.~
http://www.planetfigure.com/threads/book-review-designers-guide-to-samurai-patterns.54010/

 

[tonydawe]

Thanks guys, you've both been able to point me in the right direction. I have all the information I need now. Thank you.