Tsutsugaki Futon Cover - Polychrome Phoenix and Waves

Tsutsugaki Futon Cover - Polychrome Phoenix and WavesAntique indigo cotton futon cover with bold polychrome tsutsugaki drawings. This four panel cover depicts a vibrant phoenix flying near a paulownia tree with ocean waves flanking its base. According to Buddhist mythology, the Phoenix represents wisdom & energy. Buddha was deep in meditation when the Phoenix appeared and blessed him with these sustaining qualities. It is also said that the Phoenix's ample wing spread protected him from the assaults of

Sleeve to sleeve: 49

133 x 142 cm

This is a stunning boro furoshiki (wrapping cloth)

"Saki" relates to preparing the fabric by striping it into pieces and "ori" refers to weaving it together

Tsuno-bukuro are composed of a single long piece of hand-woven fabric

This piece balances a blend of what most collectors seek in boro - a visual aesthetic of artfully constructed patchwork that gives a "modernist" feel and years of hard wear

Early to Mid 1900s

Thick padded cotton with some areas of very light discoloration but otherwise in excellent condition without tears

which would be presented as offerings to temples during important religious ceremonies or holidays

The central crest depicts ivy and karabana flowers

Traditional wrapping cloth decorated with tsutsugaki

In excellent condition