Japanese Textile Art

< Home | Obi

This is an extraordinary and dramatic Obi that has been intricately woven and signed by the Master Weaver. It would be a striking addition to any room. (The photos do not do the pattern nor the high sheen of the silk justice)

DESCRIPTION: This is a dramatic example of the most elaborate of the “Maru” Obi to be handwoven in the finest Silk for Japanese women around the turn of the century. A Maru Obi is the most ceremonial and expensive of the Silk Obi. It has but one seam, meaning that the Obi was woven in one continuous panel before being folded over in such a manner that, usually, the pattern was not lost in the fold. Seldom does one find a Maru Obi totally in black. The typical all black Obi was usually a Fukuro Obi with only one side woven in a pattern. There is a rich sheen to the Silk threads that does not typically shine through with such a small overall pattern. A “Maru” Obi (Japanese Woman’s sash or belt) was the ultimate accessory for the Kimono

The pattern is known as “Meiji Jimon,” which indicates that it is a small inclusive repeat design, and one which took a very skilled weaver to create. The motif resembles the Peacock (“Kujaku”) Feather, a design that was imported from China and adapted to Japanese uses. The Peacock is linked to designs on the back of Mirrors (beauty likes to see its own reflection), and Buddhism. The Peacock is usually portrayed in a realistic manner, but in cases like this Obi, it is the tail feather of the bird that has received a stylized treatment. Black (“Kuro”), as a color, has been associated with dignity and formality. It is one of the most distinguished colors used on both fine and decorative art in Japan. The overall pattern and color of the Obi indicates that it was meant to be worn in the winter season; and, by an older, married woman.

When an Obi has a signature woven into the hem of the garment, it becomes a very special order commissioned for a woman of high rank and wealth in Japanese society. Such a designation is found in the Satin stripes at the bottom of this very exceptional Obi.

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: Japan

TYPE TEXTILE: This is a rare, handwoven Silk “Maru Obi,” which is the most formal and most expensive of the Japanese Obi. A Maru Obi has but one seam, and has been woven in a continuous repeat pattern and folded over to create 2 visions of the same dramatic scene.

APPROXIMATE DATE OR PERIOD: Late Meiji Era (1868-1911) to Early Tasiho Era (1912-1925)

FABRIC CONTENT and CONDITION: Handwoven of the finest quality Silk threads, in excellent condition.

FINISHED SIZE: Size 12 ¾ inches wide x 13 ¼ feet long

PRESENTATION: Creates a dramatic wall hanging, either vertically or horizontally, or extraordinary table or chest runner.

A Certificate of Authenticity is included.

PRICE: $1350

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