Antique obi textile art " View from the Window ~ Shochikubai ~ " by ikasu, Japan

<< Story behind the work >> Obi fabric I used for this artwork is taken from three different over 100-years-old antique sashes, and is framed in wood taken from antique chest-of-dra...

About This Panel This exceptional textile panel is crafted from a vintage obi, showcasing the rich tradition of Japanese weaving artistry. The design depicts a poetic waterside lands...

This work is inspired by traditional Japanese nature colors symbolism, and is framed in paulownia wood originally used for a kimono chest-of-drawers. It is filled with storytelling ...

This work is inspired by traditional Japanese nature motifs symbolism, and is framed in paulownia wood originally used for a kimono chest-of-drawers. In this artwork, the aim was to capture the the auspicious symbol of camellia used in antique kimono. Traditional Japanese culture, represented by the kimono, and wood, an integral element of Japanese craftsmanship, were used to bring this vision to life. I used pieces of kimono that could no longer be used as clothing and kiritansu chest-of-drawers that would normally be discarded to create the ultimate upcycled piece. << Explanation and meaning of pattern and colors >> This delicate piece features hand-drawn camellia motifs flowing gracefully on a softly brightened grayish background. Camellias, native to Japan, bloom from winter to early spring. As an evergreen tree with green leaves throughout the year, it symbolizes the anticipation of spring and is considered an auspicious plant. Due to its seasonal significance and auspicious meanings, camellias have been used as motifs symbolizing good fortune. Additionally, they were highly valued for their use in oil, cosmetics, and medicine, representing nobility. Believed to possess the power to ward off misfortune, camellias also carry the meaning of "protection from calamity" and have strong ties to traditional ceremonies. In this artwork, camellias are delicately depicted alongside flowing branches, subtly representing good fortune with their pale pink and white hues. "Sora-iro nezumi 空色鼠" refers to a light grayish color with a hint of blue, reminiscent of the slightly brightened sky on a lightly cloudy day. Popular during the late Edo period (19th cent.), it elegantly captures the slightly brighter sky pattern seen on lightly overcast days. Notably, the term "nezumi-iro" (mouse gray), popular during the late Edo period, was paired with brown tones, collectively known as "Forty-eight Teas and a Hundred Mice 四十八茶百鼠." Colors within the "nezumi" (gray) spectrum, particularly "sora-iro nezumi," were favored by young people for their cool and sophisticated appeal. << Characteristics of the fabric >> The fabric features intricately woven patterns that reveal subtle gradations through dyeing, creating a grid pattern that transforms depending on the light conditions. Originally, this fabric was part of a formal kimono known as a "hōmongi 訪問着," featuring motifs along the hem, shoulders, and sleeves. These motifs have been carefully selected and combined to create a unified piece of artwork. << About the frame >> Kiritansu - chest-of-drawers for kimono, is traditionally made from paulownia wood, a uniquely Japanese material closely tied to the world of kimonos. Paulownia wood is known as the lightest wood in Japan, prased for its natural luster, resistance to moisture, and resilience against cracking. Since ancient times, it has been used in crafting furniture, chests, and musical instruments. During the Edo period, it became customary to store cherished kimonos in paulownia chests...

Japanese Two Panel Screen: Late Nineteenth Century Kimono Fabric Mounted on Early Twentieth Century Screen. In the Heian period (eighth century to the twelfth century), noblemen wou...

A Japanese silk Fukusa Panel housed in a gilt frame circa late 19th century of Meiji Period. Fukusa is a traditional Japanese textile art used as a wrap for presenting gifts at important occasions. On the deep blue background, the elaborate embroidery work depicts a historical scene where street vendors selling goods to a royal household or an aristocratic residence. The scene focuses on the activities at the front gate where the couriers and servants were busying carrying the goods in. A peasant with straw coat...

A Japanese festival kimono expertly mounted and displayed in a large acrylic shadow box. This impressive ceremonial garment circa late 19th-early 20th century was made from a thick l...

Susheki Okutani "Takaya Plum Garden Landscape" Silk, Colored, Authentic, Hanging Scroll, , Double Box size Axis: Height 206.5cm Width 29.3cm Drawing…Height 126.7cm Width 19.5cm *There may be slight differences in dimensions. Thank you for your understanding. situation It is in good condition, but please note that there are some light stains. Please check the image for details. Thank you for your support. Biography Akishi Okutani Japanese painter. Born in Osaka. His name is Tsunejiro. He studied under Kansai Mori. From an early age, he exhibited his works at the Japan Painting Association and the Young People's Painting Association, which was led by Gaho Hashimoto and Gyokusho Kawabata, and won numerous awards. He also opened a private school...