Japanese Maru Obi with Crane and Flowers in Fan-Shape Motif

White crane glides through a busy garden of fans and chrysanthemums.

This silk maru obi with a crane and flowers in a fan-shaped motif is from Japan, and is ca. 1940. The obi is the wide sash worn over a kimono, and the maru obi is the fullest style, patterned along its whole length and traditionally worn for formal occasions. Folded brocade sash with a long-necked white bird, red and orange flowers, fan shapes and dark pine boughs on a cream ground. Wave patterns and metallic thread give the surface a dense, shimmering texture. It is 13 inches wide and 148 long.

Crowded with motifs, and carried off with great confidence.