What is Saga Nishiki? A detailed explanation of its history and characteristics!

Saga brocade is often used for sandals and bags to match formal kimonos, and many of them are very gorgeous and lovely.

By the way, do you know about Saga Nishiki?

Although you can imagine from the name “Saga Nishiki” that it originated in Saga, there are probably many people who are not familiar with its history.

In this issue, we will explain in detail the history, characteristics, and appeal of Saga Nishiki.

What is Saga Nishiki?

Saga Nishiki is a luxurious and intricate brocade fabric woven mainly of gold and silver.

It is called Saga Nishiki (or Kashima Nishiki) because it developed in the area around present-day Saga.

It is woven with such precision and care that it is often said that only a few centimeters are woven in a day.

For this reason, large items are rarely made, and are often used as fabric for small items.

Although it is sometimes woven into obi fabric, it is a very rare item.

Incidentally, Saga Nishiki is woven by threading silk threads in the weft and using finely cut gold and silver foil paper (Japanese paper) in the warp, and moving them up and down with a bamboo spatula.

History of Saga Nishiki

There are many theories about the origin of Saga Nishiki, but here are some of the most well-known episodes.

It is said that it was invented by the ninth wife of the Nabeshima family of the Kashima Domain in Saga during the Edo period (1603-1868), and developed as a handicraft by the women of the Saga Domain.

The luxurious and gorgeous brocade fabrics became popular among the wealthy, but were nearly abandoned when the domain was abolished during the transition to the Meiji era (1868-1912).

However, it was Shigenobu Okuma who decided that it would be a shame to let Saga Nishiki become a mirage.

He successfully saved Saga Nishiki from extinction by arranging for it to be exhibited at the Great Anglo-Japanese Exposition held in London in 1910.

The great popularity of Saga Nishiki at the Great Anglo-Japanese Exposition made it famous in Japan as well.

Until then, Saga Nishiki had been called various names, such as “Okumimono,” “Kashima Nishiki,” and “Kumishiki,” but its success at the Great Japan-England Exposition encouraged the official name, “Saga Nishiki.

The charm of Saga Nishiki lies in its bold patterns and coloring

The charm of Saga Nishiki is not only its luxury.

The use of colors and patterns found within the luxury of Saga Nishiki have been loved throughout the ages.

In particular, the patterns of Ajiro, Hishi, and Saayagata are popular because they never get old.

In any of these patterns, Saga brocade is often used for accessories for formal occasions, as it does not detract from the quality of the kimono, but rather serves as a good material for creating a sense of luxury.

Bags and sandals are usually sold as a set, so choosing one with the same pattern line to create a sense of unity will further enhance the luxury of Saga brocade.

Enjoy the charm of Saga Nishiki

Saga Nishiki is a luxurious and delicate fabric, and many people feel that it is a hurdle to get their hands on it. However, when it comes to small items, having even one Saga Nishiki item can be very useful.

Saga Nishiki accessories are very useful for formal occasions.

As mentioned earlier, fabrics with abundant use of gold and silver threads are perfect for formal occasions.

In particular, when wearing furisode and tomesode, it is best to use accessories woven with Saga brocade.

It is especially suitable for a coming-of-age ceremony, wedding ceremony, or other formal occasions, as it is both elegant and luxurious.

In addition, if you choose a geometric pattern in Saga brocade, you can match it with any kimono and obi, making it very convenient for use in a variety of situations.

However, it cannot be used for casual occasions, as it will float away.

For those who wear kimonos only for fine occasions or for celebratory occasions, we recommend that you prepare Saga brocade accessories.

Contemporary Saga Nishiki goods

Some say that Saga Nishiki is in surprisingly low demand because it is so formal in Japanese dress.

From this situation, Saga Nishiki goods are being devised to keep Saga Nishiki alive and fit into modern society.

For example, neckties, accessory cases, red seal book covers, etc. Although not large items, Saga Nishiki goods that can be used in daily life are being devised every day.

Even small items such as knickknack cases that are clearly recognizable as Saga Nishiki are very popular as souvenirs from overseas.

Small Saga Nishiki goods are also in the affordable price range, so they are especially recommended for those who love Saga Nishiki.

Conclusion

We have explained Saga Nishiki, touching on its history, characteristics, and appeal.

Even if you are familiar with Saga Nishiki itself, you may not be familiar with its history.

Gorgeous and beautiful Saga brocade sandals and bags are generally worn with tomesode and furisode dresses, but of course they can also be worn with visiting kimonos worn for formal occasions.

Please enjoy the wonderful combinations with kimonos.

It is said that Saga brocade obi is also highly artistic, and many people enjoy framing a portion of it as art.

If you have a Saga-nishiki obi that you no longer wear and it is still sitting in your chest of drawers, it might be interesting to turn it into art and enjoy it as a wall decoration.

Reference: Saga Nishiki / Saga Prefecture
Reference: Peace Crafts SAGA Project to support traditional crafts in Saga