This treasure ship fukusa, made of relatively coarse satin or silk and metallic thread braiding and couching on a fine felt background, depicts one of Japan's colorful New Year's legends. It's approximately 24.5 inches (62 cm) wide and 25.5 inches (65 cm) tall, featuring orange silk edging and backing.

Legend has it that the seven gods of good fortune ride down from heaven in their treasure ship (takarabune) during the first three days of the New Year, bearing gifts for children. These treasures include a hat and robe of invisibility, an inexhaustible purse of gold, scrolls of wisdom, a divine robe of feathers, jewels, and rolls of brocade. Daikoku's mallet supposedly produces coins when struck, and Hotei's bag contains endless treasures.

While the piece is generally in good condition, there are some loose threads in the embroidery, one tiny round hole in the felt, and splitting and breaking along the edging.

This artwork is featured on pages 212-215 of Ceremonial Textiles of Japan, 18th to 20th Centuries. This book, published by Yorke Antique Textiles, can be previewed or purchased on our website here.

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