Tsuru & Kinmatsu

Motif

Japanese cranes are considered mystical birds and are praised for their noble elegance. In the wild, the cranes live by clear water rather than gathering in the woods with other birds. This is probably what led them to be designated “Lord of the feathered creatures” in Chinese culture. In China the image of cranes flying among the clouds can represent outstanding personalities who have elevated higher than ordinary people.

In Japan, cranes remain a strong symbol of longevity, as it was believed they lived to hundreds of years. Today, it is an endangered species and one of the only known population of cranes can be observed in a national park in Hokkaido, Northern Japan, where they can live up to 80 years old.

As a kimono pattern, it is an auspicious symbol frequently worn on bridal kimono and accessories. When a couple of cranes are represented flying side-by-side it may wish the spouses a happy and long life together. But the cranes can also be observed in many other aspects of everyday life in Japan, the most common being the origami shaped crane, a well-known symbol for peace around the world.

TEXTILE

• technique: jacquard

• weft: lamé and silk

• warp : silk

This obi is composed of a smooth background, on which textured cranes are flying, and is designed for a bridal outfit.

The golden pine branches are represented in gigantic proportions, which make the birds look like they are flying above an explosion of gold fireworks.

Gold flakes seem to have been sprinkled on top, though it is also part of the woven pattern. High quality of manufacture like this one is rarely seen on an everyday obi, this is definitely a very special (and highly prized) piece.