This insect cage conveys the idea of insects living among the stems of the begonia flowers. In late summer the crickets begin to sing all at once like a symphony.
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The circle of flowers is based on a stone engraving on the arcade wall of a French museum.
The stone is carved like a burst of energy in creation, and the dynamism of life. Plum flowers and mum patterns are added to the design along with color.
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Japan, an island country, is long and narrow from north to south. It has a full range of gorgeous seasonal changes and the greatest number of cherry tree varieties in the world. In spring, weather reports on TV and radio focus on where and when the cherry flowers will bloom.
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The color change of the maple is considered especially beautiful in Japan. Autumn is an extremely favorable season for visiting Japan because of the intense colors. At the height of autumn, the leaves are more flowery than flowers.
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In Japan, there is a custom to “listen to insects. It makes us feel cool by listening to the insects singing while awaiting the arrival of the autumn season.
People continue to make traditional insect baskets using bamboo in traditional style. Children catching insects and storing them in a cage is a typical summer scene in Japan.
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Pine, crane, and turtle (expressed as kikko, the hexagon pattern taken from turtle shells) are symbols of longevity in Japan. This is why these motifs can be often seen at celebrations such as weddings, or birthdays for elders. Examples of this can be seen on formal wedding kimonos, and the uchikake, the decorative kimono that is worn over the actual kimono, where beautiful images of those motifs are often embroidered.
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Gunbai, meaning “military-apportioned fan”, was a specialized form of fan used by high-ranking samurai officers in old Japan to communicate commands to their troops. They could also shield the officer from the sun, or arrows.
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This design is from one of the Taste of Japanese Embroidery classes used to introduce students to Japanese Embroidery. Students without any experience can stitch it within four hours on a single day. Once the basic motif is completed, the student can stitch more of the design, if they wish to do so.
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The four seasons circulate Like a circle which has no beginning and no end Reminding us of the flow of eternity
Under the pure white blanket The red fruits glow even more in the severe cold
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Mature autumn season dresses up colorfully How many leaves are supporting One flower to bloom or one fruit to bear? At times, leaves are more flowery than flowers
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There are 54 Genji-mon geometrical design patterns, which originally symbolized the combination of fragrances in the Genjiko game. The summer design shows a genji-mon with a morning glory. There is a story behind this design.
