Folding Fans & Flowers
Motif
Kazari-sensu (decorative fans) are hand-painted folding fans, often with gold backgrounds, decorated with popular historical motifs and natural motifs. This obi represents five different fans, each “painted” with a different motif: the Gosho-guruma (imperial car), Peonies, Clovers, and Chrysanthemums.
This design is called Sensu-chirashi: when a composition uses folding fans to organise and frame multiple motifs within them.
The background of the obi, black silk with gold details, is also decorated with rich yet delicate motifs.
This decorative fan (available in my store) is almost exactly the one represented on this obi. Same Imperial car, bell flowers and cherry blossoms.
When looking very close, we discover even more hidden elements in the motif, like this little phoenix bird.
Framing
When ordering a smaller bag, like a Bumbag, you can choose the details and colours of the motif you would like to feature on your bag. A larger design, such as the Computer Bag or the Weekender, will allow the entire motif to be visible. For example, these two pouches below are the same item (Small Travel Pouch) made from two different parts of the motif.
The focus is made on the Peonies
The focus is made on the Imperial Cart
More bags made in this fabric
Backpack
Designed together with the customer during one of my workshops.
Bumbag
In-person workshop in Kyoto
If you are visiting Kyoto and would like to spend some time discovering these fabrics in person, you are welcome to visit my studio.
Together, we will design your bag from A to Z. You will choose your favourite obi and even cut the fabric yourself, selecting the exact part of the motif you love most.
I will then carefully sew and finish your bag and ship it to you once it is complete.
→ Book a studio visit and experience the fabrics with your own eyes