Willow Bridge – a shibori romance
The Willow Bridge is a work of art which must have taken at least two months to complete. The skill required to pick out all the design motifs is difficult to imagine, and the shibori artist who created the silk for this haori must have had a truly deep understanding and experience.
The Japanese have a whole bank of traditional design images from which to draw, and an intense connection to the natural world. They show an innate ability to interpret the charm of plants and flowers in order to express their joys and pains. Their communion with nature manifests itself through an elaborate symbolism. The story unfolds as the eye scans the linked series of motifs, which reunite as a complete narrative.
The destined wearer of this silk haori would have chosen motifs expressing auspicious outcomes, and perhaps reflecting an important aspect of her personal life. This phenomenon of intentionality and meaning in kimono motifs make it possible to “read” or at least have a glimpse into, the owner’s life.
The Willow Bridge depicts a world of images suggestive of romance, with both male and female motifs in mutual embrace, establishing a delightful love story. If you would like to know the full story, please contact me via this blog…
It is possible to contrast the enormous energy and strength of the exterior design with the quiet gentleness of the haori lining. This is a simple woven silk latticework, placed around shading green circles. It reminds us of the inner calm that can accompany a strong external appearance. Yin and Yang find their place in many ways in this extraordinary haori.
For more vintage haori, and to see Willow Bridge used as my May Banner, please visit my store on: www.etsy.com/shop/ikimono
Arigato gozaimasu
