Description
Although this Obi is considered a “collectible” (1912-1926), it is included in this Collection because it is a marvelous example of early 20th Century design.
This is a particularly fine example of the Obi produced early in the twentieth century. While a Maru Obi is the most formal of the Obi, it traditionally has but one seam. This version has 2, although the pattern is exactly the same on each of the sides of the Obi. It has been woven of a fine Silk, of very high quality, that produces a lustrous sheen.
The gray background provides a perfect backdrop for the pattern within pattern that occurs overall. Thus, the flowing stream that connects the other elements of the design, also bears a pattern. The diamond shapes that are visible within the stream are also used to create the larger diamond shapes. It is within these areas that the Chrysanthemum (“Kiku”), Peonies (“Botan”), and Iris (“Shobu”) are fully displayed. They soften the harder edges of the geometric lozenge or diamond shaped flowers that surround them and follow the stream. The water not only flows, but appears to gently rise and fall because of the variations in the widths of the stream.
Because of the quiet feel of the design and the subdued color of the Obi, it would have been worn by an older, probably married, woman whose place in society was not to stand out or draw attention to herself. The fine weaving and intricacy of the design, as well as the soft feel of the Silk, would indicate that a woman of wealth would have commissioned the creation of this Obi.
A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
TTAC will personally pack and ship via UPS at company expense within the continental U.S.
