Kin-Ka Tsunagi in Radiant Silk

Heian Court Craft in Sculptural Form

A sculptural Hina pair defined by luminosity, balance, and disciplined restraint.

Composed in black, gold, and white, the arrangement achieves striking clarity through a limited palette. Rather than ornament excess, presence is created through contrast and material integrity.

At its centre stands the dialogue between silk and screen.

The Byōbu — Hōsōge Motif

The folding screen features the Hōsōge pattern — an imaginary floral motif derived from Buddhist art.

Originating in Tang-dynasty China, the design symbolised prosperity, auspicious fortune, and cultivated refinement. It later flourished in Japan during the Nara and Heian periods, appearing among the treasures of the Shōsōin repository.

Unlike naturalistic flowers, Hōsōge is an idealised composite form, combining elements of lotus, peony, and budding blossoms. Its layered petals express continuous growth and harmony, while its purity conveys spiritual clarity.

It is not a flower of this world, but one of aspiration — a visual prayer for prosperity and enduring life.

Craftsmanship of the Screen

The screen is produced in Kyoto and finished with Kyo-Karakami, a traditional decorative paper created by hand-printing patterns onto washi using carved woodblocks.

Developed during the Heian period as a refined adaptation of Chinese Tang paper, Kyo-Karakami evolved from aristocratic writing paper into architectural surfaces for sliding doors and screens.

Pigments are brushed onto woodblocks and pressed into the paper by hand, often incorporating mica (kirazuri) to create subtle luminosity. Classical motifs such as arabesques, waves, and floral patterns are rendered with restraint and depth.

Today, this craft continues to adorn tea rooms, temples, and contemporary interiors — a living tradition of courtly aesthetics.

The Empress

The Empress is dressed in layered silk combining white, gold, and subtle iridescent tones. In her hand, she holds a fan wrapped in gold leaf, reinforcing the dignity of court refinement.

• Karaginu (outer robe): 100% silk
• Uwagi (second robe): 100% silk

The Emperor

The Emperor’s robe is enveloped in a luminous gold floral pattern, creating a unified surface of brilliance.
His scepter (shaku) and crown are finished in gold leaf, extending the radiance to every ceremonial element.

• Robe material: 100% silk

The Shion Expression

The Shion face carries quiet strength.
Inspired by the restraint of classical Noh masks, the expression appears minimal, yet capable of reflecting multiple emotions through subtle nuance. Rounded brows and a composed gaze balance tradition with refined modern sensibility.
The longer one observes, the deeper the presence becomes.

Dimensions 

• Empress: W310 × D260 × H150 mm
• Emperor: W240 × D170 × H230 mm

International shipping costs are not included at checkout. Due to the size and craftsmanship of each piece, final shipping charges will be confirmed and invoiced separately after your order is placed.