Japanese Maru Obi with Arboreous Motif

Giant pine tufts in rust and green bloom across a cream silk ground.

This silk maru obi with a tree motif is from Japan, and is ca. 1940. Trees and branches are familiar subjects in Japanese textile design, and they are often chosen to suggest the passing of the seasons. Folded woven sash with large pine-needle clusters in red, orange and green, drawn with metallic gold thread. Soft swirling clouds in gold and cream fill the background. The surface has a raised, brocaded texture. It is 12.75 inches wide and 159 long.

Lavish enough to make the pines look slightly theatrical.