This plain 'shioze' silk gift cloth showcases very intricate yuzen work, which is visible in the detailed images provided. It features embroidery highlights and depicts two 'kaioke,' hexagonal containers traditionally used to store clam shells for an ancient shell-matching game called 'kaiawase.' The cloth is in very good condition overall, although there's some light smudging and a small yet noticeable black stain on the right field. Its dimensions are 20 inches by 21 inches.

This artwork is featured on pages 140-143 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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