Pocket:karakusa pattern: vegetal arabesques

A Japanese version of patterns seen on one of the carpets preserved in Shoso-in. These felt carpets were allegedly imported from China or Central Asia in the eighth century. The karakusa style originates in paintings adorning pillars of temples. There are patterns of curved lines representing intertwined vines throughout the territory of the Old World. These vines are executed in soft blue yarn on a soft fabric, giving a strong feeling of vitality. The design also expresses ideas of eternal fulfillment and longevity.