This elegant chirimen silk fukusa (gift cover), dating to the Meiji period (1868–1912), is a masterful display of monochromatic ink-wash artistry. Measuring 22 inches by 23 inches (55.9 cm x 58.4 cm), the textile features the fine, pebbled texture characteristic of high-quality silk crepe.
The central motif is rendered using the sumi-e (ink-drawing) technique, depicting a powerful minogame (long-lived tortoise). The creature is shown carrying a large, luminous houju (sacred Buddhist jewel) on its back. In Japanese mythology, the minogame is a symbol of longevity, often depicted with a trailing tail of seaweed, while the houju represents the granting of wishes and the expulsion of evil. The ink-work utilizes masterful gradations of grey and black to suggest volume and the "glow" of the gem. The composition includes calligraphic inscriptions and a red artist's seal on the left, further aligning the piece with the traditions of literati ink painting. The fukusa is in very good condition and features original black silk tassels at the corners.