Japonisme Paintings and Screens

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

Japan / 2021s Size : W1200 D25 H1550 mm Kuroya Washi artist Hatano Wataru's masterpiece "Stacked Things" series. Japanese paper, soil, pigments, etc. are layered on top of each other to express the beauty of what has been accumulated over the years. [Wataru Hatano...

This artwork creatively uses tree bark to evoke the imagery of woods and mountains during both the morning and nighttime on left and right. It is elegantly framed with paulownia wood, a tree closely connected to kimono culture, and is filled with storytelling and sense of luxury. By incorporating both the front and back sides of the same obi fabric woven in different colors, the play of light and shadow on the mountains is depicted through the contrasting appearances of these surfaces. The intention behind this piece is to convey the exquisite beauty of Japanese mountains and the lush forests that inhabit them. To achieve this, traditional elements of Japanese culture, such as obi textiles and craftsmanship involving wood, were used. The outer side and inner linings of the same obi, no longer suitable for clothing, along with bark material that would normally be discarded, have been repurposed to create this exceptional upcycle artwork. The fusion of Japanese natural materials – silk, paulownia wood, and pine bark for the central decoration – along with the so-called "Tozan" pattern, a unique Japanese natural design showing mountains from far-away point, captures the magnificent beauty of Japanese nature from various perspectives. The central bark decoration stands out as a distinctive feature of this work. Pine, oak, and other tree barks are interwoven among the mountains woven into the obi, creating a tangible and authentic natural atmosphere. << Period / Story >> The obi used in this piece was originally crafted during the late Showa period (1960-80ies). << Explanation and meaning of pattern and colors >> This upcycle artwork uses an obi with a tozan pattern woven in two colors. The design is inspired by a distant mountain range, a motif that has been used in paintings and crafts since ancient times. However, in this particular design, the mountains are depicted not as distant peaks but as graceful semicircles giving it a mild atmosphere. << Characteristics of the fabric >> This upcycled Fukuro-obi (two-side obi) showcases a festive color pattern of mountains intricately woven with gold threads against a beige front and red on the back. The way this obi interacts with light allows it to shift in expression, much like a mountain revealing different facets over time. It can transform from deep shades of color to the appearance of gold shimmering against bright hues, depending on the lighting and viewing angle. << 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...

This work is inspired by the coral color palette, and is framed in paulownia wood originally used for a kimono chest-of-drawers. In this artwork, the aim was to capture the wide pal...

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...

A Japanese Sumi ink painting with light color wash mounted with brocade borders as a hanging scroll (Kakejiku). The painting depicts the famously eccentric Buddhist monks Hanshan and Shide (known in Japan as Kanzan and Jittoku). Often as a pair, they have been a popular motif in Japanese Zen painting...

This textile artwork uses a vintage obi dated around 1980ies, with a feather motif, and arranges it so that it looks like a vase. Antique obi, just as it is a broken vase, is united back again with black obijime - a string used to tie up obi when it’s worn. Framed in kiritansu (antique chest) paulownia wood. It is elegantly framed with paulownia wood originally used for kimono chest-of-drawers, and is filled with storytelling and sense of luxury. 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>> Feathers hold various meanings and symbolism in Japanese traditional culture, often reflecting themes of spirituality, symbolism, and folklore. Here are some of the meanings associated with feathers in Japanese tradition: ・Divine Protection: Feathers are often seen as symbols of divine protection and spiritual guidance. Feathers, especially those from birds, are considered to be imbued with the protective energy, offering spiritual guardianship and safeguarding against negative forces. ・Connection to the Spirit World: Feathers are sometimes associated with the spirit world and the realm of the divine. In folklore and mythology, feathers are depicted as messengers between the earthly realm and the celestial realms. ・Symbol of Beauty and Elegance: Feathers are admired for their natural beauty, grace, and elegance. In traditional Japanese arts such as Noh theater, Kabuki, and dance performances like Kagura, actors and performers often use feathered costumes or accessories to enhance their appearance and convey a sense of refinement and sophistication. ・Sign of Good Luck and Prosperity: In Japanese folklore, certain birds like cranes and pheasants are considered symbols of good fortune, longevity, and prosperity. Feathers from these birds are often depicted in art and craftwork as auspicious symbols believed to bring blessings and positive energy to the bearer. <> 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...

An antique ink and color on paper hanging scroll (kakejiku) with brocade border. It appears to be a fragment of a larger hand scroll depicting a procession of a lord with his entoura...

This work uses an antique tomesode (festive kind of kimono) with fern design to evoke feelings of tranquility, harmony, and appreciation for the beauty of the environment. Can be used both vertically and horizontally. It is elegantly framed with paulownia wood originally used for kimono chest-of-drawers, and is filled with storytelling and sense of luxury. 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 of colors and patterns >> In Japanese traditional culture, ferns, particularly the Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum), hold several meanings and symbolisms: ・Elegance and Beauty: Ferns are admired for their graceful, delicate appearance and intricate leaf patterns. In Japanese aesthetics, they are appreciated for their natural beauty and are often used in gardens, landscapes, and floral arrangements to add a sense of refinement and elegance. ・Resilience and Perseverance: Ferns are known for their ability to thrive in diverse environments, including shady forests, rocky cliffs, and damp soil. Their resilience in the face of challenging conditions is seen as a symbol of endurance and perseverance. In Japanese culture, ferns may represent the ability to overcome adversity and flourish despite obstacles. ・Connection to Nature and Tranquility: Ferns are native to forested areas and are often associated with the natural world. In Japanese traditional culture, they symbolize a deep connection to nature and the importance of maintaining harmony with the environment. The lush green foliage of ferns evokes feelings of tranquility and peacefulness, making them popular motifs in Zen gardens and traditional landscape paintings. ・Purity and Simplicity: Ferns are emblematic of simplicity and purity in Japanese aesthetics. Their unassuming beauty and understated elegance reflect the principles of wabi-sabi, an aesthetic worldview that values imperfection, impermanence, and simplicity. Ferns may be used in tea ceremonies, Ikebana (flower arranging), and other traditional arts to evoke a sense of tranquility and appreciation for life's fleeting moments. Overall, ferns in Japanese traditional culture symbolize elegance, resilience, connection to nature, purity, and simplicity. Their presence in art, literature, and landscape design underscores their enduring significance as symbols of natural beauty and spiritual resonance. << Characteristics of the fabric >> This vintage textile is hand-painted with a traditional Japanese technique called "yuzen". << 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 Phoenix Screen, Edo Period, Ca. 1850 Japanese Edo Period (1603-1868) DIMENSIONS Height: 24 inches Width: 28 inches