【Edo Tokyo Rethink】Ryukobo x Noritaka Tatehana

The dying, design, and braiding of silk yarn––.

Ryukobo is involved with each step of the kumihimo braiding process.
Kumihimo has a long history, said to have been used as part of the ceremonial dress of Prince Shotoku during the Asuka period (592-710). While kumihimo is said to have come to Japan together with Buddhism, it would later develop into something uniquely Japanese, including being used on armor.

The Kaku-himo (square braid), born as a collaborative piece for this exhibition, has differing colors on the front and back. The inspiration for this design came from the lining of haori, worn over kimonos. By using pink silk yarn dyed with Isehan Honten’s beni pigment, the yarn demonstrates the artistic effect of an accent color.

In addition, by carefully braiding the yarn in intervals of 60 millimeters, one can give the texture a unique expression. Harmony emerges within the ornamental knot tied in a Yurugi-gumi (crown braid) style.

Photo: GION
*All necessary safety precautions were taken during the interview as part of COVID-19 prevention.

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Online Exhibition Outline
Exhibition Title: Edo Tokyo Rethink -The Future of Traditional Industry Seen Through Art at the Kyu-Iwasaki-tei Gardens-
Exhibition Site: https://edotokyokirari.jp/exhibition/
Organizer: Tokyo Metropolitan Government, Edo-Tokyo Kirari Project
Co-organizer: Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association

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