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Kakinuma Toko

Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty Green

Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty Green

Regular price $149.00 USD
Regular price Sale price $149.00 USD
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Step into a world where tradition meets charm with the Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty in Green, a beautiful creation by esteemed artisan Kakinuma Toko. This figurine brings Hello Kitty to life through the traditional Japanese Kimekomi technique, seamlessly blending modern pop culture with the rich heritage of Japanese craftsmanship. Transformed into a Maneki-neko (beckoning cat), Hello Kitty becomes a symbol of good luck and prosperity, infused with cultural meaning.

The Kimekomi technique, which originated in the 18th century, involves delicately embedding fabric into grooves carved into a wooden or clay base. This painstaking process results in a smooth, textured appearance that allows intricate kimono patterns and vibrant colors to emerge in vivid detail. Here, Hello Kitty is adorned in a striking green kimono, representing growth and renewal, with floral motifs that celebrate the beauty of Japanese nature.

As a master of the Kimekomi tradition, Kakinuma Toko infuses precision and artistry into every piece, ensuring that each Hello Kitty figurine is unique and meticulously crafted. This green Maneki Hello Kitty is more than just a collectible; it’s a talisman of resilience and good fortune, carrying both kawaii charm and the timeless elegance of Japanese artistry. Perfect as a thoughtful gift or a decorative piece, the Edo Kimekomi Kimono Maneki Hello Kitty in Green adds a touch of cultural depth and luck to any setting.

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.