A silk obi in soft ochre, embroidered with nanten (heavenly bamboo), its clusters of vermilion berries and dark, sword-like leaves rendered in fine silk and metallic thread. The motif repeats down the length of the sash, each grouping slightly varied by hand, with a single silvered leaf rising above each cluster in quiet contrast to the black and orange below.

Displayed on a hand-carved ash wood hanger, the obi hangs as a piece of textile art rather than a worn accessory, the weight of the silk giving it a gentle, natural fall against the wall.

Details

• Materials: Silk, embroidered with metallic thread, Cotton lining.
• Motif: Nanten (heavenly bamboo)
• Construction: Handmade, with a pressed and folded edge rather than stitched, allowing the fabric to hang naturally
• Display: Hand-carved ash wood hanger
• Date: Unknown, possibly midcentury (based on lining)
• Dimensions: Total length 333cm / 131", Hanging length 210cm / 82.7", W 30cm / 11.8"; Hanger 38cm / 15" x 4.5cm / 1.8"
• Condition: Good, some wrinkles and unevenness to be expected.
• Care: Dry clean only, gentle steam recommended