Extraordinary Fan Designs (1213)

Description

This is an extraordinary example of the fine arts of Japan past. This elaborately embroidered Fukusa, or formal gift cover, was commissioned by a family of very high standing within the Imperial community of Japan. It has been hand woven of naturally dyed indigo satin silk that appeared most often from the turn of the 18th century to the late Edo Era.

The magnificent hand embroidery sets out three separate scenes set within fan shapes. The fan has been a popular symbol in Japan because the action of opening one is thought to be a favorable sign for the unfolding of the future. The open fan shapes are considered an auspicious omen for the family and directly relates to their specific wish for its longevity. Each of these fans incorporates three famous symbols of longevity: the Crane (“Tsuru”) which takes 1000 years to fly to the sun; the Pine (“Matsu”); and the long tailed tortoise or “Minogame.” The magnificent embroidery has been further enhanced through the use of pure hand made gold threads that have been “Couched” to the design due to its fragile nature. These gold threads have been created through a tedious process that begins with the painting of liquid gold on sheer sheets of rice paper. This “gold” paper is then wrapped around a strand of silk and hand embroidered to the fabric.

A Certificate of Authenticity is included.

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