This limited edition print is a reproduction of an embroidered silk textile originally created in the late 19th century as a fukusa—a decorative Japanese gift covering. Traditionally, the design of the fukusa in relation to the occasion was considered an integral part of the gift itself. In Carp in Waves, bright metallic threads contrast sharply against the deep blue silk. Two delicately rendered fish twist and bend around swirling, silvery swells, accented by gleaming golden foamy bubbles.
This motif can be traced back to China with the expression li yu tiao long men—or, carp jumping over the Dragon’s Gate. In Chinese mythology, the Dragon’s Gate is located at the top of a waterfall. While many carp swim upstream against strong currents, few make the final leap over the waterfall. If successful, they are transformed into a dragon. A symbol of bravery, progress, and prosperity, Carp in Waves would have appropriately adorned a gift celebrating achievement.
+ Limited-edition, exclusive to 20x200
+ Museum quality: archival inks, 100% cotton rag paper unless noted
+ Handcrafted custom-framing is available
Our quoted dimensions are for the size of paper containing the images, not the printed image itself. We do not alter the aspect ratio, nor do we crop or resize the artists’ originals. All of our prints have a minimum border of .5 inches to allow for framing.
Medium:
Innova Soft White Cotton IFA 15
10"x8" | edition 10
14"x11" | edition of 150
20"x16" | edition of 25
24"x20" | edition 10
40"x30" | edition of 2
