Textile Art 　Masterpiece Saga Nishiki Fukuro Obi by Takeichiro Okano – White Hanabishi Pattern Formal Silk Kimono Belt A masterpiece endorsed by the Japanese Imperial Family Created by master weaver Takeichiro Okano, this Saga Nishiki textile represents the pinnacle of Japanese weaving artistry. Blending the refined techniques of Saga Nishiki and Hakata-ori, it embodies centuries of craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and aesthetic sophistication. Works from the Okano workshop have been presented to the Imperial Household and exhibited internationally, including at the Louvre Museum of Decorative Arts in Paris, making them highly desirable among collectors of Japanese art and textiles. This is a high‑grade Saga Nishiki fukuro obi by renowned Japanese master weaver Takeichiro Okano. A refined hanabishi (flower‑diamond) pattern is woven all over in soft white and pale gold, creating a quiet yet unmistakably luxurious shimmer that suits the most formal occasions. Saga Nishiki is a prestigious traditional brocade from Saga Prefecture. It is hand‑woven using extremely thin strips of Japanese paper coated with gold or silver and lacquer as the warp, and fine dyed silk as the weft, producing a light fabric with a very rich metallic luster. Because only a few centimeters can be woven in a day, large pieces such as obi are rare and highly valued. About the artist – Takeichiro Okano Takeichiro Okano is widely respected for preserving these demanding Saga Nishiki techniques while creating obi with elegant, modern sensibility. His works are sought after by kimono collectors in Japan for their precise geometric patterns and dignified, understated brilliance. This obi is a beautiful example of his craftsmanship. Details – Artist / Maker: Takeichiro Okano – Weave: Saga Nishiki brocade – Type: Fukuro obi (formal double‑width obi) – Colour: Elegant white‑ivory with subtle gold sheen – Pattern: Hanabishi (flower‑diamond) motif all over – Material: Silk and metallic paper threads – Length: approx. 438 cm – Width: approx. 31 cm – Use: For formal kimono (tomesode, homongi, furisode), wedding and ceremony wear, or as high‑end interior décor, wall hanging or table runner Condition Vintage obi in very good condition. The surface retains a beautiful glossy luster and the woven pattern is crisp. No obvious stains or fraying on the front; only very light, natural signs of age may be found on the lining, consistent with careful use.