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Antique Japanese Fukusa with The Eight Views of Omi browse these categories for related items... All Items: Japanese: Textiles: Decorative: Pre 1900: item #810102
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This is a Japanese fukusa, a gift cover with the design of the “Eight Views of Omi”. In the beginning of the 16th century, eight scenic spots in Omi (Shiga, Japan) were selected and closely followed Chinese “The Eight Views of Xiaoxiang”. The original Eight Views of Xiaoxiang is said to be painted by Song Di in the 11th century – the paintings no longer exist today. The masterpiece depicted beautiful landscapes around Lake Dongting (Hunan Province, China) and inspired many generations of poets and artists in China, Korea, Taiwan, Japan, etc. There were variations added to “The eight views” in Japan over the years and this encouraged mobility from sightseeing travelers. In turn, this stimulated the economy not only in these places but where the travelers passed through. The "Eight Views of Omi" shown on this fukusa are: "Evening Snow at Mt. Hira", "Descending Geese at Katada", "Night Rain at Karasaki", "Evening Bell at Miidera (Temple Mii)", "Sunset Glow at Setta River", "Clearing Mist at Awazu", "Returning Sails at Yabase" and "Autumn Moon at Ishiyama-dera(temple)" where Murasaki Shikibu was said to have written the world's first novel, "The Tale of Genji". Marriage is often indicated as a couple’s voyage to the unknown. With sail boats, a long bridge and geese in the sky, this fukusa may have been used to cover wedding gifts. It’s also appropriate for the New Year ceremony. Silver wrapped threads instead of gold, after numerous sumptuary laws were issued targeting the extravagance of wealthy merchants. Circa 19th century. Dimensions: 26" wide x 27" long. |
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