Vintage kimono textile art "View from the Window ~Maple&Plum~" by ikasu, Japan

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...

This work is inspired by traditional hand-dying technique edo-komon, and is framed in paulownia wood originally used for a kimono chest-of-drawers. It is elegantly framed with paulo...

About This Canvas This canvas has been upcycled from an early 20th-century maru-obi, featuring a subtle yet sophisticated depiction of the phoenix—a legendary symbol of peace and ren...

The art piece uses two sides - front and reverse - of the same kimono, to show beautiful sea surrounding Japan, in hues and in late sunset, as a timelapse. The frame for this work is made of paulownia wood taken from antique Kiritansu - chest-of-drawers for kimono. I use antique kiritansu that can’t be used as furniture anymore to create basis and frames for my works. It adds them even more authentic atmosphere of traditional wabisabi spirit. Can you feel it? << Period / Story >> The kimono used in this piece was originally crafted during Showa period (around 1960ies). << Explanation and meaning of pattern and colors >> Sea waves, depicted in two color variations here, are a symbol of transience and Impermanence in Japanese culture. The ebb and flow of the tides, the ever-changing currents, and the relentless motion of the waves serve as reminders of the fleeting nature of life. This artwork featuring the sea convey themes of impermanence, reminding viewers to cherish the present moment and appreciate the beauty of life's fleeting moments. The theme of impermanence is strengthen by two colors of the sea - the lighter in early hues and the darker when the sun is just about to set in the sea. << About the frame >> This artwork frame is crafted from paulownia wood, a uniquely Japanese material closely tied to the world of kimonos, and it serves to convey the refined beauty of Japanese nature. 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. Paulownia wood is closely linked to kimono culture. During the Edo period (17th cent.~), it became customary to store cherished kimonos in paulownia chests...

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