Japanese Textile Art

DESCRIPTION:

Exquisite, life-like Egret, a member of the Heron (“Sagi”) family, flawlessly hand embroidered in Silk and “Couched” with fine white gold/platinum threads. This fine thread is made by hand by first painting a layer of liquid gold on thin handmade paper, and then wrapping it around several threads of silk. Because of its delicacy, it could not be sewn into the fabric; but was, instead, laid on top and hand stitched with exquisitely-minute stitches. Herons, with their long necks and bills and soft plumage, were gregarious and can still be found near human habitation. This magnificent free style embroidery has been based on the Japanese reverence for nature which is part of their heritage and traditional Shinto Religion. Some Shrines still celebrate the Heron Dance, in which the herons are considered messengers from the gods. In ancient times, Japan was called the “Land of Abundant Reed Plains and Rice Fields;” and the reed, too, is often mentioned in old poetry, as well as reflected in art.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan

TYPE TEXTILE: Formal Woman’s Summer Obi

APPROXIMATE DATE OR PERIOD: Late Meiji Era (1868-1911), prior to the turn of the century

FABRIC CONTENT and CONDITION: Elegant Silk Gossamer known as “Karami Ori,” a member of the gauze family. This piece represents the most intricate of these weaves, the “Ro,” which is distinguished by strips of densely woven material separated by an open weave. The secret behind this fine open weave fabric creates a strong, beautiful, and cool “Summer Silk.” The Obi from which this textile art was taken could only have been worn for 3 months of the summer season according to Japanese dictates.

FINISHED SIZE: 20” x 25 1/2”

PRESENTATION: Triple acid-free mats in black core black and celadon green with the outer dark green mat reflective of the reeds. This graceful hand worked design has then been placed in a dark green, mottled wood frame with inner, narrow lines of gold. It is protected by non glare, 97% UV glass. This elegant, antique Obi Fragment has been mounted in conformance with the highest standards in order to ensure a damage-free environment for its future protection.

A Certificate of Authenticity is included.

PRICE: $4800.00

Professional packing and shipping is included within the continental United States