A Breeze of Sincerity and the Dignified Beauty of Autumn
In our "Flower Uchiwa Series," which captures the shifting Japanese seasons, our third feature highlights the "Kikyo" (Balloon Flower), cherished since ancient times as one of the seven flowers of autumn. As summer transitions into fall, the dignified appearance of the Kikyo blooming in the refreshing breeze brings a quiet rhythm of coolness to our hearts. The blue-violet hues swaying in your hand add a touch of sudden elegance to daily life, allowing you to feel the arrival of the season through your five senses.
A Pure Prayer in a Star Shape Symbolizing "Eternal Love"
With its star-like floral shape, the Kikyo has appeared in countless poems and stories throughout history. Its meanings in the language of flowers—"sincerity" and "eternal love"—seem to represent its very posture of gazing straight up at the sky with pure integrity. The Kikyo possesses a quiet strength and kindness that, once seen, is never forgotten. Whether as a gift for a loved one or a way to regain inner peace, the story woven by this "Kikyo" uchiwa subtly enhances the dignity of its holder.
Quiet Vitality Captured in a Single Stroke by Kayo
Life is breathed into this Kikyo by the refined brushwork of Yoshimasa Katagiri (artistic name: Kayo). Differing from the softer expressions of the previous series, this work masterfully portrays the "beauty of silence" through the clean outlines and deep colors of the flower. Each petal painted by Kayo radiates a transparency as if it holds the quiet air of dawn, resonating with the texture of traditional Tosa Washi. This delicate design is supported by Marugame’s craftsmanship, a legacy of over 400 years. The bamboo frame, handcrafted from Kagawa-grown bamboo, offers a flexibility that fits perfectly in the hand, producing a high-quality, comfortable breeze with every stroke.
Our Belief
We view the Marugame Uchiwa not merely as a tool, but as a "bridge" connecting people, culture, and the seasons. This technique, designated as a National Traditional Craft in 1997, is carefully preserved in Marugame, which accounts for approximately 90% of Japan’s uchiwa production. The "Kikyo" uchiwa, combining traditional methods with Kayo’s modern sensibility, is truly a work of art to be loved across generations. We hope the Japanese aesthetic infused into this breeze fills your life with richness and sincere thoughts.
Product Page:
https://marugameuchiwa.com/products/kikyo
