About the Artwork
This cotton textile would have either been used as a futonji (futon cover) or a yutan (covering cloth). Futonji were draped over the coverlet of a futon; these textiles would have been stored during the day and displayed only shortly before and during sleep. Yutan were used to cover tansu (chests of drawers) or other types of baggage during this bridal procession and later in the bride's new home.
This example features several different designs made by tsutsugaki (freehand resist). There is a large, centeralized kamon (family crest) in the upper half of the textile. The crest is known as maru ni tsuta and features three leaves of the Japanese ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) within a circle. Below the crest is a design of shōchikubai (lit. "pine, bamboo, plum,' also known as Three Friends of Winter), a decorative motif that symbolizes the qualities of perseverance, integrity, and modesty. This combination of flora was developed in China in accordance with Confucian values, and was adopted in Japan as an auspicious motif.
A crane and turtle are also present in the landscape; the crane flies through the air, while the turtle swims in the waves of the ocean. The two animals are linked through a Japanese expression tsuru wa sennen, kame wa mennen (lit. 'The crane lives for a thousand years, the turtle lives for ten thousand years') This phrase is often stated to wish long life to a person or a couple, and the decorative motif is therefore frequently featured on wedding accoutrements.
The only dye used in this textile is indigo, and subtle variations are used to create dimension within the motifs. The undyed white of the fabric is also utilized to add highlights and a definition.
"Textiles of Japan" by Thomas Murray, page 244.
Product Specifications
- Built Solid and Ready to Hang
- Artist-Grade Canvas Fade-Resistant Archival Inks
- Patented, Warp-Resistant Construction Hard-Sealed Back (No Dust or Staples)
- Printed and assembled in the USA
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