Gift cover (fukusa) with design of an antique mirror

WHAT’S THE STORY?
During the Meiji period many Japanese art collectors were passionate about Chinese antiquities. The square mirror embroidered at the center of this gift cover is of a type dating back to China’s Tang dynasty (618–907). A pattern of fantastic animals, birds, and grapevines decorates the “back” of the mirror. The reverse side of the cloth is adorned with an oak leaf family crest (kamon).

TAKE A CLOSER LOOK
The central square features raised embroidery to mimic a metal bas-relief design and the texture of the mirror’s knotted white “cord.” The “mirror” is elegantly set on a silvery background woven on a jacquard loom.