Japanese fabrics made from silver, mother of pearl, lapis lazuli, and gold

[CMN]

This was incredible to watch. I had to share:

 

[minousbijoux]

Wow, unbelievable! Had no idea such a thing was even possible, but they sure are beautiful!

 

[Brigid]

Lovely post! How stunning is the A Mother of Pearl Obi and its meaning; harmonious co-existence of humanity and nature.
Japanese craftsmanship has always been an interest, love of mine.

 

[kenny]

Thanks for posting!
I LOVE things like this!

 

[SparklieBug]

I was fortunate to be in Sapporo, years ago, and by chance, attended an exhibition of both modern and antique kimonos and obis. Totally fabulous! Some things were for sale, and I was smitten by one particular obi. It was created by a “living legend” (whose name I no longer recall), and was too dear a price for my (meager) budget.

People purchased these for ceremonial purposes or to wear for special occasions. My intention was to have one as a display, as artwork. Alas, not to be.

This wonderful video reminded me of that amazing display! Thanks, @CMN

 

[Gloria27]

High end craftsmanship.

Lapis Lazuli was a prized pigment (in the crushed form) throughout history and it almost ceased being used as a pigment when chemical replacements appeared at the beginning of the 19th century.

 

[Cinders]

Amazing! It's heartbreaking that skills like these are dying out.

 

[lala646]

That lapis obi was breathtaking!

 

[canuk-gal]

Hi:

Tears of awe + joy, and also of sadness. Thank you for posting this!

cheers--Sharon

 

[autumngems]

They make so many beautiful Obi's and Kimonos. I bought several when I lived in Japan. I even had a business tying the obi's into different designs for wall hangings.