Kuukou Folding Wristlet Clutch 3142I

Our best selling clutch, hand made from vintage kimono: use as a stylish travel accessory, as it can accommodate a few passports, or a functional 'throw in and go' folding clutch to hold a few essentials on a night out. 

A harmonious blend of emblems: ‘botan’, ‘ayame’ and ‘kiku’ with ‘ume’ blossoms and ‘momiji’, maple leaves.   Botan, peonies, are known as the King of Flowers in Japan where they represent longevity and steadfastness. 'Ayame' are especially loved by the Japanese: it is a sign of strength and the sword shaped leaves are symbols of warriors in the past.  Kiku, the chrysanthemum, is the flower of the Imperial House and and often used icon of Japan itself (it features on Japanese passports).   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.  Momijigari is a celebration of autumn leaves, started by the aristocracy during the Heian era 794-1185 AD.

The pattern is printed on a rinzu silk kimono: a kind of damask silk which has motifs woven into it’s surface, in this case ‘Sensu’, the fans which are used for traditional dance performances. 

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

Handmade by self help groups in Cambodia.

Dimensions: 24cm x 13cm