Description
This is a remarkable Tapestry weave silk Obi that displays the very scarce pastel pinks and deep lapis colors that could only be attained by the nobility.
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. Finding a 19th Century “Maru” Obi that has been created from natural pastel dyes is very unusual, but to have that Obi also include purple, the color of the Imperial Family, is extraordinary.
The lapis highlights are also significant, as are the color variations of the Flying Crane (“Tsuru”). The dark green of the Pine (“Matsu”) and Bamboo (“Take”) provide a dramatic foil for the oversized Peonies (“Botan”) and Chrysanthemums (“Kiku”), while the overall design is tied together by the swirling Clouds (“Kumo”) and Streams (“Nagare”). The Pine symbolizes longevity, the Crane represent good fortune and long life as legend has it that it takes the Crane 1000 years to fly to the Sun. The Chrysanthemum are the flower of the Imperial Family and the Peony is an equally auspicious flower as it denoted the Chinese Royal Family.
The tapestry weave of this Silk Obi has a fascinating texture. In addition, the intricacy of the design and the rare and striking colors attest to the artistry of the weaver, while the stripes at the bottom of the pattern denote that a woman of high rank and wealth in Japanese society wore this dramatic Obi.
A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
TTAC will personally pack and ship via UPS at company expense within the continental U.S.