The kimono is not only one of the simplest silhouettes in the history of world fashion—a perfectly symmetrical T shape, with panels sometimes hanging from the sleeves—it is a canvas. Silk, cotton, synthetic blends. Embroidered, printed, resist-dyed. Fabrics are the art in the kimono, and fabric choices, and treatments, have for centuries made the kimono an irresistible image in Japanese prints. For the first time ever, “The Kimono in Print” examines the way this iconic piece of clothing has inspired Japanese print culture and design. —L.J.