Object size: 91.0 x 83.0 cm (with tassels)
In Japan, the practice of formally presenting gifts with silk covers called fukusa began in the Edo period (1603–1868), around the late 17th or early 18th century. These covers were draped or folded over gifts for a variety of occasions, from seasonal festivities to important personal events. Each fukusa was carefully chosen to evoke the circumstance of the gift and to convey a message to the recipient through its design. Fukusa designs often feature symbolic objects or allusions to Japanese and Chinese stories. The choice of fukusa also reflected the giver’s wealth, taste, erudition, and cultural sensitivity. The use of fukusa continued into the early 20th century. Today, they are used in parts of Japan for weddings and corporate events. The sea bream (tai) is auspicious because it sounds the same as medetai, a word used to describe joyous occasions. It was the main dish served at festive events like weddings. Embroidered entirely in gold, the pair of sea bream on this fukusa conveys congratulations and blessings for matrimonial harmony. The gold threads catch the light at different angles, evoking the silvery, reflective scales of the fish.
