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The original Obi
Plum Blossoms by the River
If you are familiar with my creations, you know I can never resist an obi featuring a motif reminiscent of the beautiful Red and White Plum Blossoms by Ogata Kōrin.
You could argue that this piece is not directly inspired by it, or perhaps that it is a very free interpretation, as it includes additional elements such as rocks and pine trees. It is true. But it doesn't make me love it any less.
What particularly caught my eye was the choice of cool tones: a bright silver background replacing the gold leaf backdrop so typical of the Rinpa School.
The Irises in bloom on a Kinkakuji visit , May 2025
Available items from the same Obi
Mikan original bumbag, made of vintage obi silk and new materials. Light, sturdy & water-resistant.
The motif represents pine trees by a water stream.
The original obi is visible below. You can see that I selected Pine motifs and the Water Swirls, so particular to the Rinpa school, and which have been widely used in the world of Komono since becoming popular in paintings in the 18th Century.
Materials
Front: Nishijin-ori jacquard silk & lamé
Back : resistant 3D mesh polyester & nylon mix, olive green
Gold zipper
Wide, adjustable and removable nylon strap (50 cm x 170 cm / 19.6 in x 67 in) gold and green
Details
height: 19 cm / 7.4 inches in the centre front
width: 18 cm / 7 inches at the bottom, 29 cm / 11.4 inches at the widest
depth: up to 15 cm / 5.9 in
2 front compartments