Japanese Textile Art

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DESCRIPTION: This is a marvelous Fukusa, or formal gift cover, that has been hand woven of Shioze Silk, and still retains its original tassels which were tied to reveal the era in which it was created. This is a hard-edged and very strong silk that was not easily produced in old Japan. It has been hand dyed of natural minerals in a lustrous brown shade that has been used in Japan since ancient days. It is considered the color of the Earth itself, and conveys the reverence the Japanese place on their relationship with nature. The dramatic Noh Mask that adorns this Fukusa has been created through the "Rice Paste Resist" technique.

The Noh Theatre was considered that of the highest strata of Japanese society and the costume of the Kyogen actors was considered of greater significance than the action of the play itself. This is the black Mask from the play, "Okina," and is used during the 3rd dance, "Sambaso." Throughout this play both a white and black mask are used, and it is the only Noh play in which they are put on or off while on the stage.

The Crest, or “Mon,” which appears on the reverse side of the Fukusa is that of the Wood Sorrel or “Katagami.” In early days in Japan, the leaf of the wood sorrel was used to make a medicinal salve and to polish bronze mirrors. Thus, it is also referred to as the “mirror plant.” Since the fruit contains many seeds, Samurai families often used this symbol as an auspicious token for the proliferation of their families.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan

TYPE TEXTILE: Fukusa or Formal Gift Cover

APPROXIMATE DATE OR PERIOD: Late Meiji Era (1868 - 1912) to the Early Taisho Era (1912-1926)

FABRIC CONTENT and CONDITION: Hand woven Shioze Silk which is a fabric of a plain weave with thick wefts and predominant warps. It is well suited for the Rice Paste Resist technique of hand painting. This method, imported from China, refers to the process of fabric dyeing that employs a water-soluble paste that is applied to the fabric before the color is put on. This ensures incredible qualities of precision as the paste is reapplied for each new color that is incorporated into the design

FINISHED SIZE: 19" wide x 21" high, not including the tassels

PRESENTATION: Fabulous wall hanging or framed art work. The Fukusa is actually 2 separate sides sewed together at the outer seam with the inclusion of the tassels. The Crest on the reverse side of the Fukusa would also make a dramatic framed work of art on the wall or as a designer pillow.

A Certificate of Authenticity is included.

PRICE: $950

TTAC will personally pack and ship via UPS at company expense within the continental U.S.