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Vintage Japanese Authentic Hakata-ori Silk Nagoya Obi - Elegant Red & Off-White Kenjo Pattern
Thank you for visiting my store! Up for sale is a breathtaking vintage Japanese Nagoya Obi woven in the famous Hakata-ori (Hakata weave) style from the Showa era.
Crafted from 100% natural silk (Shoken), this piece features striking crimson red geometric motifs set against a warm off-white background. It showcases the iconic \"Kenjo Pattern\" (献上柄), incorporating traditional Buddhist elements such as the Dokko (pestle) and Hanasara (flower plate) borders.
At approximately 380 cm (149.6 inches) in length, this obi is in very good vintage condition and offers fantastic versatility—perfect for traditional Kimono styling, elegant interior decor (such as a table runner or wall tapestry), or premium craft upcycling.
[Deep Dive: The Rich History & Cultural Heritage of Hakata-ori & Kenjo Pattern]Hakata-ori is one of Japan\'s most prestigious traditional textile crafts, originating in Fukuoka (Hakata) over 770 years ago during the Kamakura Period. In 1241, a Japanese merchant named Mitsui Sokyo returned from Song Dynasty China bringing back advanced weaving techniques, which were continuously refined by local master weavers into what became known as Hakata-ori.
The distinctive weave uses high-density warp threads tightly pressed together with thick, tightly twisted weft threads using a heavy wooden comb. This unique structure creates a firm, durable fabric that produces a satisfying sound known as \"Kinu-nari\" (silk rustle/squeak) when tied, ensuring that the obi never slips or loosens.
The \"Kenjo Pattern\" (献上柄 - TRIBUTE PATTERN) carries deep historical significance:- History: In the Edo Period (1603-1867), the Kuroda Clan (rulers of the Fukuoka/Hakata Domain) selected this specific high-grade weave as their official annual tribute gift presented directly to the Tokugawa Shogunate. Hence, the pattern earned the prestigious title of \"Kenjo\" (Offered Tribute).- Symbolism: 1. Dokko (独鈷): Inspired by the sacred Buddhist ritual tool used to dispel evil spirits and negative energy, representing spiritual protection and strength. 2. Hanasara (華皿): Represents the ceremonial flower plate used in Buddhist rituals, symbolizing prosperity, purity, and peace. 3. Stripe Patterns (Kotyoshi / Ryoshi): The thin and thick vertical stripes represent parents and children, symbolizing strong family bonds, safety, and ancestral protection.
[Product Details & Specifications]- Type: Nagoya Obi (名古屋帯)- Material: 100% Pure Silk (正絹 Shoken)- Color: Off-White / Ivory with Crimson Red woven geometric pattern- Pattern: Traditional Kenjo Pattern (献上柄 - Dokko & Hanasara motifs)- Era: Showa Era (Mid to Late 20th Century)- Weight: Approx. 448 g (0.98 lbs)- Dimensions: - Length: Approx. 380 cm (149.6 inches) - Width: Approx. 29.5 cm (11.6 inches)
[Condition Note]This vintage item is in very good vintage condition:- Minor fold lines/creases from storage.- Light age-related wear, but free of major stains or damage.- Mild characteristic vintage textile scent from storage.*Please inspect all detailed photos carefully.*
[Shipping]- Shipped directly from Japan via International Airmail with a tracking number (Standard Shipping).- FREE Shipping for the buyer!- Carefully packed to protect the silk threads during transit.
If you have any questions about this piece or Hakata-ori history, please feel free to send a message. Thank you very much!
