Japanese Maru Obi with Crane Motif

White cranes in full flight over waves of gold, with a sunset burning orange behind them.

This maru obi with crane motif comes from Japan, ca. 1940, and is silk. The maru obi, woven to full width and folded in half, is the most formal style of kimono sash, and cranes are a classic Japanese emblem of long life and good fortune. Large birds with black-tipped wings and red crowns sweep across the brocade, their feathers picked out in cream and rust. Bands of metallic gold and silver suggest clouds and water, laced with streaks of orange and red. It is 12.5 inches wide and 154 long.

Formal wear for a very good occasion, and a very long walk around the waist.