Crane and Butterfly in Heian Motif

Heian Court Craft in Sculptural Form

A sculptural Hina pair that expresses restraint, contrast, and cultivated sophistication.

Dominated by deep indigo and black, this composition departs from conventional softness. Instead, it embraces clarity of line and decisive colour — an interpretation of court tradition through the lens of refined Japanese iki.

Cool, composed, and quietly commanding.

The Textiles

At first glance, the patterns may appear almost Western in their symmetry. Yet they are rooted in classical Japanese motifs: Hanabishi (floral diamond), flowing water, and continuous cherry blossom designs.

The Empress is dressed in rare indigo-toned robes, unified in pattern. Beneath the restrained colour lies richly textured fabric, treated to create a dimensional surface that catches light like scattered jewels.

The Emperor’s garment carries the same continuous traditional motifs, rendered with structural clarity.

Emperor robe: 100% polyester

• Empress Karaginu (outer robe): 100% polyester
• Empress Uwagi (second layer): 100% polyester

The use of material here emphasises surface structure and precision rather than softness — reinforcing the modern sharpness of the composition.

The Setting

A black folding screen and platform anchor the display, intensifying the indigo and gold tones. The restrained background allows the geometry of pattern and colour to stand forward with confidence.

The Suō Expression

The Suō face is selected for its distinctly Kyoto refinement.

Composed, elegant, and free of excess expression, it embodies cultivated beauty rather than sentimentality. The balance between serenity and quiet strength reflects both tradition and modern sensibility.

Dimensions 

• Empress: W230 × D230 × H140 mm
• Emperor: W170 × D140 × H210 mm

International shipping is calculated at checkout, based on the destination and the weight of your order. Each piece is shipped from Japan by EMS (Japan Post) with tracking. Any import duties or taxes levied by the destination country are the responsibility of the recipient.

Please note: each piece is made to order by hand. Your delivery date will be confirmed after your order is placed. Production and delivery take from 1 month up to a maximum of 6 months, depending on the piece and the craftsman’s schedule.