DESCRIPTION:  

This is an extraordinarily fine heirloom fragment from an antique Wedding Kimono that was hand woven of Chirimen Silk, a rare, crepe-like silk. The subject of the elaborate embroidery indicates that the wedding took place in the late winter, while the dark purple of the background silk signified the highest rank of social status of the wearer, as purple was limited to members of the Imperial Family.  Reinforcing the status of the bride is the heavy use of “Couched” white gold or platinum thread.  This is fine, pure gold thread that has been created through a long process of painting liquid gold on rice paper, and then wrapping it around several strands of silk thread.  It was then so fragile that it could not be sewn through the fabric; but was, instead, laid on top and stitched down with additional silk threads.  

The use of the elements of the “Three Friends of Winter:” the bamboo (“Take”), the pine tree (“Matsu”), and the plum blossoms (“Ume”) represent the qualities most desirable in a bride: charm and innocence, resilience and rectitude, and longevity and good fortune for the future.  It also indicates that this wedding took place during the winter season.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan

TYPE TEXTILE:  Panel from a Formal Bridal Kimono of the Imperial Family

APPROXIMATE DATE OR PERIOD:  Late Edo Era (1615-1867) to Early Meiji Era (1868 - 1911)

FABRIC CONTENT and CONDITION: Hand woven Chirimen Silk that has not been reproduced in Japan since the 1800s, as the actual weaving process has been lost. It has been beautifully preserved.

FINISHED SIZE:  11 1/4” wide x 29 1/2” high     

PRESENTATION:  This magnificently embroidered panel has been set in a wooden fillet which has been matted with an acid-free, gold and silver mottled mat to best draw out the color of the Couching, and then set in a lacquered wooden frame to match.  It is protected by non glare, 97% UV glass. This antique textile 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: $2800 

Professional packing and shipping provided within the continental United States

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