Ginkou Kimono Purse 4287D

Our stylish and functional purse, hand made from vintage kimono: use as a travel accessory, as it can accommodate passports and boarding passes, or as a colourful day time clutch clutch to hold your essentials.  The gingko purse features 6 divided internal sections, plus one zipped section, and credit card slots to keep everything together.

There are also loops inside from which you can clip and hang a chain or strap to turn this into a sling bag.

A bright and bold seigaiha pattern decorates this kimono:  these ‘wave’ or ‘scale’ patterns can be seen on all forms of Japanese design.  it was originally used on maps to depict the sea, and was made popular by the artist Seikai Kanshichi.  Depicted within each wave, are Sensu, the fans used in traditional Japanese dance performances.  These are a symbol of prosperity as they grow when opened.

In the borders of the scales you will also find 'ume' blossom, ‘Kiku’, and ‘kikyo’ flowers, and ‘Sasa’ trees.

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. 

Japanese meaning of Kikyo is Pentagram, as the Bellflower has five petals. It is an important symbol in Taoism as each petal represents an element: wood, fire, earth, metal and water. It is a common ‘mon’ family crest.

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.  Sasa, bamboo, is known for it's flexibility and strength, therefore the motif signifies strength of character.

The pattern is printed on a rinzu silk, a damask silk woven with a mottled pattern, to give extra texture to the kimono fabric.  The design is further enhanced by gold printed areas.

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: 23cm x 13cm x 3cm