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Kakinuma Toko

Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty Blue

Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty Blue

Regular price $149.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $149.00 USD
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Experience the charm of Hello Kitty in a new light with this exquisite Edo Kimekomi creation by renowned artisan Kakinuma Toko. Crafted using the traditional Japanese Kimekomi technique, this piece beautifully merges modern pop culture with the heritage of Japanese artistry, transforming Hello Kitty into a charming Maneki-neko (beckoning cat), symbolizing good fortune and prosperity.

The Kimekomi technique, originating in the 18th century, involves carefully embedding cloth into grooves carved into a wooden or clay base. This labor-intensive process creates a seamless and textured appearance, allowing for intricate kimono patterns and vibrant colors to come to life on each figure. Here, Hello Kitty is dressed in a traditional kimono, adorned in a stunning blue with delicate floral patterns that reflect the beauty of Japanese design.

Kakinuma Toko, a master of the Kimekomi tradition, brings precision and artistry to every piece, ensuring that each Hello Kitty is unique and meticulously crafted. By incorporating Hello Kitty as a Maneki-neko, this piece not only captures the beloved character but also infuses it with cultural significance, making it a delightful talisman of good luck.

Perfect as a collectible or a thoughtful gift, the Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty adds a touch of Japanese elegance and a sprinkle of luck to any setting, blending tradition with the whimsical charm of Hello Kitty in a truly unique piece.

Detail

Size: W 2.8in x L 2.4in x H 4.7in / W 7cm x L 6cm x H 12cm
Material: Rayon, Urethane Resin

Care & Use

  • Keep dry
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Kimekomi: The Art of Grooved Elegance in Japanese Craftsmanship

Kimekomi, a sophisticated art form originating from Kyoto’s Edo period, embodies the harmony of woodcraft and textile artistry. First developed by a craftsman at Kamigamo Shrine, this technique arose from embedding fabric into grooves on wooden bases to create beautiful, decorative dolls. Derived from the Japanese term meaning “to tuck into a groove,” Kimekomi involves pressing cloth into carved lines on the surface of the wood, creating patterns without a single stitch. This method allows each fabric piece to fit perfectly within the design, accentuating both the wood’s contours and the textile’s beauty in one seamless composition. 

In its early days, Kimekomi was celebrated for crafting hina and gosho dolls, representing cultural figures, traditions, and seasonal celebrations in Japanese society. The process requires patience, skill, and an eye for detail, as artisans carefully align each piece of fabric with the wood’s intricate cuts, harmonizing form, color, and texture. Through centuries of artistic evolution, Kimekomi has adapted to modern tastes, now extending beyond doll-making to various decorative pieces that bring Japan’s rich aesthetic into homes and everyday life.

Brand History

Kakinuma Toko carries forward the legacy of Kimekomi artistry with dedication and reverence for tradition. Known for meticulous craftsmanship, Kakinuma Toko’s workshop embraces this age-old technique while adapting it for contemporary appreciation. Each piece is crafted with the same attention to detail that has defined the art for centuries, using finely carved bases and premium fabrics to achieve harmony between form and material.

Inspired by a commitment to preserve Japanese heritage, Kakinuma Toko has explored new approaches within the Kimekomi style, creating pieces that transcend traditional boundaries. With a respect for the craft’s history and a vision for its future, Kakinuma Toko continues to innovate, ensuring that Kimekomi remains a vibrant part of modern art and design.