This stunning wall hanging is made from the silk of four vintage Japanese Kimonos.
The central panel hand painted in Yuzen technique and embroidered with gold Urushi thread.
It depicts a couple of Mandarin ducks (Oshidori), the male is the more elaborate.
Often used as motifs for marriage as they represent love and monogamy and often seen swimming close together. Many believe that displaying these ducks in your home will help strengthen your relationship with your partner.
Native to Japan they do not migrate in winter and so also symbolise endurance and are often depicted in snow, but here on flowing water (ryu-sui) which represents change and persistence.
The silk panel on the left has a design in the weave also of flowing water. It has been over-printed with clouds (kumo), a natural form symbolising transition, ever changing part of the cycle of life. Butterflies (chou) symbolise transformation. Also, as spirits they can ‘carry’ the recently departed souls, Sometimes, they are interpreted as messengers, and following them will lead to a problem’s solution.
The silk panel on the right also depicts clouds (kumo) as well as falling pine sprigs (matsu) which, since they remain in pairs even after falling to the ground, symbolise fidelity. Both these motifs are produced using the traditional dye-technique of shibori where fabric is tied or sewn before dye-ing.
The hanging cord is also made of silk and is hand woven. Called an Obijime it is traditionally used to tie the waistband (Obi) together.