This exceptional silk fukusa (gift cover), dating to the mid-Meiji period (1880–1900), presents a narrative rarely seen on this type of textile: the pair of Mandarin Ducks (oshidori). Measuring 26 inches by 28 inches (66 cm x 71 cm), the cloth features a soft, cream-colored silk ground that carries the weight of a profound moral story.

The imagery draws from "The Tale of the Mandarin Ducks," a story where a male drake is stolen by a greedy lord for his brilliant plumage, only to be reunited with his mate by two kind-hearted servants. In Japanese culture, these ducks are the premier symbol of conjugal affection, fidelity, and a "happily ever after". The ducks are rendered with a sophisticated blend of techniques: yuzen-dyeing for the delicate color transitions and sagara (knot) embroidery to provide textured, dimensional highlights on the drake's vibrant feathers. The piece is in very good condition, retaining its four original deep-blue silk tassels at the corners, though it bears one minor broken thread and a faint stain on the reverse.

This artwork is featured on pages 152-155 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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