Fukusa (gift cover)
Wool
Woven, fulled, kirihame (cut and appliqued)

Wool is not indigenous to Japan. It was brought by Dutch and Portuguese traders, and was not affordable to the general population. Fukusa were placed over gifts for presentation to the recipients. Some fukusa could be very elaborate, hinting at the occasion with the appropriate motif. This fukusa is decorated with the family crest. The wool was cut to shape, then sewn on in nearly invisible stitches (below, left), and backed with washi (below, right) for reinforcement. Fukusa always have a lining. This fukusa has lost its lining, making the paper backing visible.