Description
Lovely, white on white, early 20th Century silk Obi that would make an exceptional accent in any home.
This exquisite “Maru” Obi, the most formal of the Obi, has been hand woven of the finest pure Silk threads. It is a striking example of the most elaborate of the Maru Obi to be handwoven for Japanese women before the turn of the century. It has but one seam, meaning that the Obi was woven in one continuous panel before being folded over in such a way that the pattern was not lost in the fold. It is a very lustrous, finely woven Silk Obi with a wonderful sheen that, when turned in different directions, will appear to change color. This is a sign of a very high quality Obi.
This white on white patterned obi is sophisticated and elegant. The design incorporates several family crests (Mon) within an overall hexagon (Kikko) shape, whose association with the interior crests brings auspicious associations. The hexagon began its popularity in courtly society before it was adopted as a Mon in its own right. Half of the hexagons contain a very large and stylish Chrysanthemum blossom (Kiku), considered the flower of the Imperial Family. The other half enclose “The Three Friends of Winter,” or the Bamboo (Take), the Plum (Ume), and the Pine (Matsu). This is a very famous trio in Japanese symbolism as the three represent strength, flexibility, longevity, and beauty.
Only a member of the nobility, someone with great wealth, could have commissioned the weaving of such a rich Obi.
A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
TTAC will personally pack and ship via UPS at company expense within the continental United States.
