Object size: 99.0 x 84.0 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 crane, pine, and turtle are associated with longevity. Together, they represent Mount Hōrai, the island of immortality. This motif conveyed auspicious blessings suitable for many celebratory occasions.Padding accentuates the rough, gnarled bark of the old pine tree, which is scattered with round knots (sagara-nui) made of variegated floss, evoking moss. The stylised clouds are composed of couched twisted threads arranged in radiating rows on the satin ground.
