Petit plum ~Courage~

Size

Diameter approx.  15 cm x 2cm 

Materials

Pink gold leaf, antique embroidery applique on wood

Story behind the work

This artwork began with a rare fragment of antique silk embroidery from a 100-year-old Taisho era obi, featuring vibrant plum blossoms.

When looking closely at these exquisitely stitched flowers, they felt like enduring fragments of springtime frozen in time. To honor the legacy of the artisan who hand-embroidered them a century ago, I set the silk against a luminous background of hand-applied pink gold leaf. This jewel-box-like, miniature creation brings a forgotten masterpiece back into the light, serving as an intimate window into history. A few elements - fans - from other kimono were also added.

In Japan, the plum blossom is the very first flower to bloom amidst the lingering cold of winter, symbolizing resilience, hope, and the renewal of life. The folding fan represents prosperity and a future that gracefully expands. Together with the warm glow of the pink gold, this piece captures the spirit of quiet endurance and the celebration of new beginnings, reminding us that even the most delicate beauty can withstand the test of time.

Pink gold is also applied on the side of the frame. Instead of hiding the imperfection of the frame, I accented it to celebrate the frame's history and character.

Period / Story

Taisho period (early 20th century, approximately 100 years old) antique kimono textile featuring intricate, authentic hand-embroidery.

Meaning of colors and patterns

Plum Blossoms (梅 Ume)

As the earliest blossoms of the year, plum flowers are deeply cherished symbols of perseverance, courage, and inner strength, blooming beautifully even in harsh conditions.

Folding Fans (扇 Ōgi / Sensu)

A traditional symbol of unfolding fortune and expanding prosperity, tracing a shape that widens from a single point toward a bright future.

Pink Gold Leaf

Hand-applied by the artist inside the frame, the warm, reflective pink gold leaf creates a glowing aura around the textile, blending modern radiance with the rich patina of antique silk.

Coral and Ivory Silk Threads

The vibrant orange, soft ivory, and warm tones celebrate life, vitality, and the vibrant artistic expression unique to the romanticism of the Taisho era.

Characteristics of the fabric

This piece preserves a highly intricate, authentic hand-embroidery specimen taken from a 100-year-old antique kimono. The dense, lustrous silk threads showcase a master artisan's precision, utilizing raised satin stitching to create a gorgeous, tactile dimension that catches the light beautifully from every angle. The technique used is Nihon-shishu, Japanese traditional embroidery. 

About the frame

The artwork is presented in an intimate, circular frame measuring 15cm in diameter. Its round shape accentuates the tight, elegant composition of the floral motifs and perfectly cradles the hand-applied pink gold leaf lining, creating a jewel-box-like presentation.

Notes for Collectors

• Created from an authentic antique Japanese kimono textile dating back to the Taisho era (approx. 100 years old).

• Hand-created by the artist using genuine pink gold leaf.

• One of a kind (Edition 1/1). This artwork is completely unique and cannot be replicated.
  

• Features a miniature 15cm diameter round design, creating an intimate, detailed visual experience.

• Includes a signed Certificate of Authenticity with edition number, materials, and historical details.

• Intended for indoor display only.

• To protect the delicate 100-year-old silk embroidery and metallic leaf, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.

Decoration Advice

Measuring at a delicate 15cm, this precious miniature piece acts like an artistic jewel. It is perfectly scaled to be displayed on a table easel, tucked into an elegant bookshelf styling, or hung as a focal accent on a narrow wall, bringing an understated touch of history and warmth to your interior.

Precaution

All the works are made from real kimonos, antiques and vintages. For this reason, the fabric may have traces of long-term use and minor fabric damages. In case there are any scratches or stains, we always add a photo of the area on the item page, so please check before purchasing. Regarding precaution, cancellation and refund policy, please refer to the refund policy in the footer section of the site for information.

The last pictures in the gallery are the pictures of the reverse side of the canvas, the attachments and the package.