This elegant silk fukusa (gift cover), dating to the early to mid-Meiji period (1868–1900), is a beautiful textile representation of one of Japan's most enduring myths. Measuring 25 inches by 30 inches (64 cm x 76 cm), the cloth is crafted on a cream silk ground using a combination of yuzen-dyeing, simple embroidery, and sagara (knot) embroidery.

The central imagery illustrates the Takasago Legend, featuring the elderly couple Joo and Uba (known as Jotomba) standing beneath a gnarled, ancient pine tree. Joo is depicted holding a rake to "gather" good fortune, while Uba holds a broom to "sweep away" trouble. Together, they represent a harmonious life and the ideal of aging together in happiness, a theme immortalized in the Noh play Takasago no Uta. The scene is set against a serene coastline with a red rising sun and a bold red cloud formation at the top. The piece is in good condition, showing light staining and wear consistent with its age, and retains its original four seafoam-green silk tassels.

‍