Uno Aquirax (宇野亜喜良) Offset Poster – “きもの じゅらく帯”, 1971, B1 Size (c.72 × 103 cm)
This is an original Japanese offset-printed poster created in 1971 by the legendary illustrator Uno Aquirax (also romanised “Aquirax Uno”). Commissioned by the Kyoto-based kimono and obi maker “Juraku” (じゅらく帯), the poster promotes their kimono line in a psychedelic, surrealist style that exemplifies Uno’s early-1970s commercial work. Boldly signed and copyright-stamped “©AQUIRAX,” this is one of the artist’s rare department store commissions that straddled the line between commercial design and contemporary art.
The haunting model’s gaze, botanical ornamentation, and floating calligraphy echo fin‑de‑siècle European decadence while also engaging with Japanese bijin-ga (beauty portrait) traditions. The “LOVE” motif in stylised English script and the swirling floral forms situate the work firmly within the global countercultural aesthetic of the era. This poster was likely produced in a small print run for in-store display and is now exceptionally scarce.
Condition & format
This poster is in excellent condition for its age. It has never been linen-backed and remains in its original B1 size format. The paper surface is clean with no significant damage, and colours remain rich and vibrant. Suitable for conservation framing.
Why this poster matters
Uno Aquirax (b. 1934) was a defining figure of postwar Japanese graphic design, rising to prominence through his work in underground theatre, erotic illustration, and art-book publishing. Alongside Tadanori Yokoo and Keiichi Tanaami, Uno pioneered a uniquely Japanese form of psychedelic surrealism—blending European Art Nouveau and Symbolism with Japanese Edo aesthetics and erotic subculture.
Uno’s commercial work from the early 1970s—such as this kimono campaign for Juraku—reflects his ability to transform mass advertising into poetic, highly individual visual statements. Posters like this one were never intended for long-term survival, making their preservation and rediscovery all the more significant.
Over 53 years old!
Excellent condition. Never linen-backed.
Not a reproduction or reprint.
Certificate of Authenticity included.
Please refer to the imagery (front and back) as this is the exact poster that is for sale.
