A Crepe Silk Small Drawstring Bag: Colorful Applique

early twentieth century
3 1/2" x 4 1/4" diameter, 9 cm x 11 cm diameter

This brightly colored, small drawstring bag is hand stitched from chirimen or crepe silk pieces.  It is super charming because of the deeply saturated colors, the child-like, appliqued images and the generally whimsical air of this small, decorative bag.

Shown are a Chinese child and a tae or an auspicious red snapper fish; a blooming flower, possibly cherry; a sprig of young bamboo and a sake cask; while the base shows a depiction of Mt. Fuji at sunrise.  There are hand painted details on the dark, purple silk which are difficult to see.  It is lined in white cotton.

In good condition and with its original drawstring, this is a delightful object from old Japan.