This is a sample book of Japanese ‘Semamori’ embroideries, which from what I understand were conceived as amulets of sorts to be sewn onto the back of children's kimono to bring good luck and ward off evil spirits. The tradition of Semamori began as a Japanese folk custom in the Edo period; I believe these date to the earlyish 20th century. At the center of the book is a fold out fabric page with handwritten Japanese text, which I wish I could translate, but which I assume notes the maker and detail the embroideries and their use. The embroideries are sewn onto nice weight black fabric with cardboard backings, as shown in detail photo. To my eye just a strikingly lovely thing and surely holding a whole book of these provides protection from all sorts of things!
9 1/2” w x 6 13/16” closed. 40 designs total, as pictured. A bit of minor loss to one red embroidery at lower right of "cover" page as documented. Overall excellent, very clean and bright condition.
You might also like
