Seigaiha 2
Seigaiha 2
Width 22.75cm x Height 14cm x Depth 3cm
This silk fabric is adorned with the classic 'seigaiha' pattern, also known as blue waves or fish scales. The repetitive pattern of waves was used on Chinese maps to depict the sea. It was made popular by the artist Seikai Kanshichi. It is said to symbolize the desire for continued peaceful living, like tranquil waves.
Superimposed are motifs which belong to the collective Myriad Treasures motif: including scrolls, drums, the purse of inexhaustible riches, ropes and ribbons and coins. All of these articles are thought to guarantee good fortune, long life, and prosperity.
The pattern is printed on a rinzu silk kimono: a kind of damask silk which has motifs woven into its surface, in this case flowers.