Depictions of cockerels and hens are quite common in Japanese embroideries. The cock symbolises good fortune. Cocks and hens symbolise conjugal felicity and are often permitted to run free amongst the Shinto temples. Made for the export market where there was a huge demand for Oriental art during the late 19th century, the late Meiji period.
with eight cockerels and hens, tail feathers in full splendour, their vermillion cockscombs stunning amongst the largely sepia, beige, cream, brown and grey land, the sea and rocky outcrops behind, tumbling white wisteria above, with clumps of dandellion and small flowers, their feathers and 46 x 57 in; 1.17 x 1.46 m w.
The very edge has loose threads which could be tidied. The very bottom of the hanging has some staining and more loose threads. If this piece was put in a frame these would not show.
Threads of Silk and Gold. Ornamental Textiles from Meiji Japan by Hiroko T McDermott & Clare Pollard.
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