Authentic Gold Obi Art
The people of Japan have a long history of utilizing the land’s gold to mint coins, as well as to decorate paintings, vessels, and other objects using gold leaf and gold dust. This history earned the country a nickname, with people calling it the “Golden Country of Zipangu”.
Following these traditions, artisans with exceptional skills would flatten gold into thin sheets to create gold leaf, which was then applied to high-quality Japanese paper or silk. These were further processed into gold threads, which were subsequently woven into obi sashes.
These talented craftsmen did not only limit their designs to traditional motifs such as seasonal flowers, birds, or landscapes. They also depicted grand stories like The Tale of Genji and the Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido through their intricate obi designs, showcasing the pinnacle of Japanese craftsmanship.
However, as modern lifestyles became more prevalent in Japan, traditional clothing, particularly the wearing of kimono, began to decline. Consequently, the high-cost, labor-intensive art of creating gold obi faded into obscurity. Today, there are very few artisans capable of crafting gold threads, let alone weaving gold obi. The Tradition has almost vanished, and it is now nearly impossible to purchase new gold obi from kimono shops in Japan.
Motivated by a desire to preserve these breathtakingly beautiful gold obis for future generations and to share this extraordinary Japanese tradition with people around the world, I began collecting gold obi. Thanks to the efforts of many talented artists, we have succeeded in giving these gold obis a new life as contemporary works of art.
The future of this endeavor remains uncertain, and it is difficult to predict how many more of Japan’s remaining gold obi can be preserved. Yet, through persistent effort and with the support of many, I hold hope that this endangered craft can be saved from extinction. This is a mission I tirelessly pursue each day.
Please take a moment to explore SAKAE ART, where Japan’s traditional techniques have been infused with new life.
Special Collection
Special Collections are available upon request. Please contact us for further details.
Tokaido Collection
An obi featuring scenes from The Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido.
Genji Collection
An obi adorned with scenes from The Tale of Genji.
Koto Collection
This collection depicts landscapes of ancient capitals called “Koto,” featuring buildings, vehicles, and people, along with distant, misty mountains and trees. Through these designs, you can glimpse scenes from old capitals.
Bird Collection
Birds are symbols of “freedom,” as they soar through the sky. They also signify happiness and hope.
Botanical Collection
Botanical motifs are widely used as symbols of the beauty of the changing seasons and of life. In particular, floral patterns express the Japanese aesthetic that values seasonal awareness.