This opulent hand-painted artwork is an original and distinctive creation from Japan, dating to the Mid-Showa period (1945–1965). Measuring 13 inches by 34 inches (33 cm x 86 cm), this piece was masterfully crafted by an artist in Kyoto’s celebrated Nishijin district using paint, layered appliques, and rich foiled embellishments on thick paper. The artwork served as the primary design source for a high-end woven obi, though it currently exhibits a small area of red color bleeding, it remains in very good condition overall.

The composition is a vibrant tapestry of auspicious symbols, centered on a pair of Mandarin ducks (oshidori) perched amidst swirling, multi-colored waves (seigaiha). The ducks are rendered with brilliant plumage in cobalt blue, emerald green, and vermilion. Overhanging this scene are heavy, tiered pine branches (matsu) meticulously detailed with shimmering gold foil, alongside cascading sprays of cherry blossoms and plum flowers. The background transitions from a crisp white at the top to a deep, saturated red in the center, creating a theatrical field that highlights the metallic texture of the foiled pine needles.

‍