Antique Japanese Meiji Hand-Embroidered Silk Tapestry, 1880

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Monumental Japanese Meiji Period Hand-Embroidered Silk Landscape, circa 1880–1900

An exceptional and unusually large Japanese hand-embroidered silk landscape from the … Read more Monumental Japanese Meiji Period Hand-Embroidered Silk Landscape, circa 1880–1900

An exceptional and unusually large Japanese hand-embroidered silk landscape from the Meiji period (明治時代), circa 1880–1900, measuring an impressive 200 × 139 cm. Worked with remarkable skill in coloured silk threads, the monumental composition depicts an idyllic Japanese mountain and waterside landscape, populated with traditional temple architecture, a multi-tiered pagoda, torii (鳥居) gateway, stone lanterns, sailing boats and a magnificent vermilion arched bridge. The extraordinary detail reveals itself on closer inspection, with individual stitches used almost as an artist would use brushstrokes to create reflections upon the water, distant mountains, dense woodland and architectural detail. Particularly beautiful are the boats with individually embroidered sails and rigging and the brilliant red bridge providing a dramatic focal point amongst the subdued natural tones. A superb example of Japanese textile art – 日本刺繍 (Nihon Shishū / Japanese embroidery) on a grand scale, retaining a wonderfully atmospheric, time-softened appearance. An impressive decorative work of art and a fascinating survivor from the celebrated Meiji era of Japanese craftsmanship. Condition wise, as you would expect there are signs of age and use in the form of some water marks to the right side and fading, given that the piece is over 130 years old its remarkable something this size still exists in this form

Dimensions Height: 200cm Width: 139cm See less