What's In a Kanzashi? Part 2
On The First Day of Fun I present... a stunning kanzashi! Welcome once again one and all to The Twelve Days of Fun! This year we're starting off with a piece that has a long history behind it, so be sure to read on!
Image is courtesy of My Kyoto Photo. Motif(s): Treasure Ship Belongs To: Kaden (花傳) Okiya Occasion: Sakkō Unlike most special occasion kanzashi, this one is made up of small silk squares that use the Tsumami (つまみ - Pinching) technique rather than foil wires. Because of this, it achieves a much richer and more diverse color palette to render its subject; in this case, a Treasure Ship (宝船). These ships, known as Takarabune in Japanese, are said to contain the treasures of The Shichifukujin (七福神), The Seven Lucky Gods. Since those treasures are usually quite small to render (such as scrolls), the artist here decided to add the Shōchikubai (松竹梅 - Pine Bamboo Plum) trio, known as The Three Friends of Winter, in their stead. Shōchikubai are an auspicious trio of plants that represent endurance, growth, and new beginnings in the face of adversity. There is a crane, a symbol of longevity and fidelity, added to the boat as well. This piece was owned by the Kaden okiya for many years and at least four of their maiko wore it for their sakkō period: Kosen (小扇), Komomo (小桃), Koume (小梅), and Koaki (小晶). In the picture above it is being worn by Koume ^^
