CURRENT WITH STANDING WAVE
This dynamic design of whirls with standing waves “caught in a moment”, has long been used on traditional kimono, as well as other hand-crafted items. Each artisan’s rendition being slightly different, such as with the addition of flying cranes or geometric shapes; elements added for interest to the original pattern.
Pagong’s design is composed of repeated concentric circles, or maru, which represent a current, signifying harmony. The maru’s resemblance to a “target” is symbolic of persistence, and the achieving of one’s personal goal.
The seigaiha or “standing wave” is a pattern which represents surges of good fortune. The seigaiha pattern also signifies power, and resilience.
Ikyu no Ryu - Ikyu’s Dragon (featured in the Edo-era Kabuki drama “Sukeroku Yukari No Edo Zakura”
On the gorgeous Kabuki stage, the setting from which this pattern is taken, we are transported to feudal Japan, when samurai and bushi still had important roles in the land.
Ikyu the main character of this Kabuki drama, is wearing the boldly elegant, lavishly embroidered dragon kimono, which “explodes” on stage. Worn with confidence, Ikkyu’s full intention (in the story), is to distinguish his importance as well as his high ranking.
The origin of the exquisite symbols within this costume can be traced back to ancient Chinese mythology. The five-clawed dragon, considered god-like, is said to have been worn only by nobles. The depiction of stylized mountains, clouds, waves and flames, represent great wealth, strength, and abundance.
We have been given official permission to use this extraordinary pattern from Shochiku Costume Company in Tokyo, to which Pagong has implemented the dye technique of Kyoto Yuzen.
Sukeru Yukari No Edo Zakura is one of the eighteen best plays of the world-renown Ichikawa family of Kabuki actors. We have a small video clip from the play included under our blog section “Pleasures of Kyoto”- Ikkyu’s Dragon.
