Obi

Red with gold design

An obi (帯) is a broad, decorative sash worn around the waist with traditional Japanese clothing, such as a kimono or yukata. Ranging up to 12 feet long, they serve to hold garments closed while functioning as an elegant focal point. They can also be used as artistic home decor.

This textile is a thinner or narrower traditional Japanese obi called a hanhaba-obi (half-width obi). It measures about 15 cm (6 inches) wide which is half the width of a formal wide obi. It is a very soft lightweight and pliable fabric sash that ties into a loose relaxed bow. This piece was purchased at the famous Kobo-ichi flea market held monthly at To-ji Temple, Kyoto.

  • Butterflies and rainbows dance across the obi. In Japan butterflies (chōchō 蝶々) symbolize human souls the transition from childhood to womanhood and marital happiness. They represent both the living and the dead and their delicate flight mirrors the journey of life and transformation

    The combination of red and gold represents the ultimate expression of auspiciousness, divine protection and seasonal celebration. Red wards off evil and represents life, blood and youth. Gold represents the divinity, the sun, prestige and wealth.

 

  • Title: Obi

  • Date: 1984

  • Geography: Kyoto, Japan

  • Medium: Cotton, gold metallic threads

  • Dimensions: H. 117 in.  W. 5.6 in.

  • Provenance: Purchased in Kyoto, Japan

  • Inventory Number:  JP.04