Hozuki, or lantern plant, is native to East Asia and is known for its striking, papery fruit husks that resemble glowing lanterns. In Japanese culture, the hozuki holds several symbolic meanings, making it a popular motif in embroidery:
-
The Japanese word “tsuzumi” conjures up images of a joyful atmosphere during festivals and banquets. This tsuzumi (hand drum) has been used in traditional folk music for Noh and Kabuki. Because the drum makes a beautiful loud sound, it is a motif for wishing to have a good harvest and success.
-
Asakusa is one of the “One Hundred Famous Views of Edo” series of ukiyo-e prints begun and largely completed by the Japanese artist Hiroshige from 1856 to 1858.
-
We all have memories of the spring grasses we saw in childhood. This obi design expresses the beautiful, yet humble wildflowers of Japan that tickle our curiosity. When we search for a design motif, we truly cherish the old references, although it might be refreshing to just go out for a walk to look for new ideas.
-
The word shuya refers to the beauty and abundance of the autumn wilds in Japan. To achieve such a scene, within the delicate autumn moonlight, the bellflower and pampas are expressed with lighter colors, mainly with flat silk and metallic threads.
-
This is a design of a traditional small boat motif on kimono. Hikifune means “boat pulling” or towing a floating boat from a towpath along a canal. We can easily imagine the life of this boat owner dragging his boat through this beautiful yet harsh nature.
-
Tango no Sekku, Boy’s Day also known as Ayame no Hi (Iris Festival), is one of the traditional ceremonies wishing for the son to grow strong and healthy just like the samurai.
-
From the window of the glowing moon, you can almost hear the sound of bell crickets amongst the bush clover.
-
This obi design is inspired by the Japanese lacquer painter and print artist of the late Edo period and early Meiji era. Zeshin’s works are often labeled as iki, which might be translated as “chic,” and considered to have just the right balance of tradition with the new.
-
From the window of the glowing moon, you can almost hear the sound of bell crickets amongst the bush clover.
-
Design is called “Kazusa Kujukuri Seine Net”, which depicts the working fishermen at Kujukuri, the city next to Togane, Japan, where Kurenai-Kai is located.
-
Typical New Year’s toys for children: koma or spinning tops, buriburi or pull-toy, along with a wooden racquet called a hagoita. Together they create the atmosphere of the New Year, the biggest celebration in Japan.