This elegant hand-painted artwork is an original and distinctive creation from Japan, dating to the Mid-Showa period (1945–1965). Measuring 12 inches by 29 inches (30 cm x 74 cm), this piece was skillfully crafted by an artist in Kyoto’s renowned Nishijin district using ink, pencil, and glitter on thin, semi-transparent rice paper. The artwork, which remains in very good condition, served as the primary technical inspiration and blueprint for a high-end woven obi.

The composition is a sophisticated multi-layered arrangement featuring a series of circular and diamond-shaped medallions overlaid on a background of swirling water patterns and floral lattice. Two majestic phoenixes (hō-ō) with long, trailing tail feathers anchor the design, soaring amidst drooping clusters of wisteria (fuji) and blooming peonies. The color palette is a delicate harmony of pastel pinks, soft violets, and golden ochres, contrasted by crisp black ink outlines and subtle glitter accents that would eventually be translated into shimmering silk and metallic threads during the weaving process.

‍