Hibi Kimono Purse 4262M

Our stylish and functional purse, hand made from vintage kimono. It has 4 inside pockets/sections, plus a zippered coin sections and 5 card slots in the main part. The bottom area opens out to give 4 more card slots and another pocket/section.

A delightful pattern of ‘sensu’ fans containing ever popular ‘ume’ blossoms, ‘kiku’ chrysanthemums and ‘momiji’, maple leaves, with 'take', bamboo, and  ‘matsu’, the pine, both treasured for their strength and longevity.   'Sensu’ are the fans used in traditional dance performances, and are a symbol of prosperity as they grow in size when opened up.

Kiku, the chrysanthemum, is the flower of the Imperial House and and often used icon of Japan itself (it features on Japanese passports).  It represents rejuvenation and longevity.  Botan, the peony is called 'king of flowers' in Japan.

Tsubaki, the camellia flower, was historically part of the Japanese wedding tea ceremony, symbolising life and promise.

Ume, the Plum Blossom is a very popular symbol on fabrics. It is a favourite within the range of Japanese designs: it’s beauty and fragrance has been reflected in many poems. It is the first of the year to bloom, and therefore represents endurance. It became a symbol of good fortune, as is used for New Year decorations.

Momiji, maple leaves symbolise autumn. Japanese traditionally admire and revere autumnal leaves just as they celebrate blossom in the spring.

These popular patterns can also be found in the designs:  Seigaiha’ pattern, called ‘blue waves’, or fish scales,  'shippou’, a never ending pattern of interlocking circles meaning gemstones or treasures, and 'kikkou', the hexagonal pattern resembles the tortoiseshell and thus is associated with longevity.

This vintage kimono was sourced from the Osaka area of Japan.  It is approximately 20-30 years old.

Handmade by self help groups in Cambodia.

Dimensions: 20cm x 10cm x 2cm closed.
Opens to 20cm x 28cm x 2cm.