In modern times, gift wrappers are used to present gifts and then conveniently disposed of right after serving their purpose. This is a stark contrast to what the Japanese practised from the 18th to the early 20th century, where beautifully embroidered luxurious Japanese silk gift covers called fukusa were used in the act of gifting. In fact, this practice of gift presentation was such an important aspect of gift giving that a gift will only be considered “successful” if the recipient was able to comprehend and decipher the meaning behind the fukusa design. This meant recognising the symbolic motifs and pictorial allusions that are intricately sewn into the silk.
Encountering a fukusa in person these days is probably quite a rare occurrence due to their infrequent use. However, the upcoming show, Fukusa, Japanese Gift Covers from the Chris Hall Collection, by the Asian civilizations and Museum (ACM) and Peranakan Museum will present us a chance to come up close and personal with these cherished gems. The exhibition gathers over 80 fukusa, kimonos, and related textiles from renowned collector Chris Hall, who holds one of the most valuable collections of Asian textiles in the world.
The entire show is segmented into different categories to show what sort of fukusa are being used in different occasions and ceremonies. Through these incredible works of art, we’ll be able to uncover varied ways of life that completely differ from ours, a variety of auspicious symbolic motifs such as lobsters and cranes, and how the politics of dress influenced fukusa design in the late Edo period.
At the end of the exhibition, you’ll find a segment dedicated to exploring the use of gift covers in other cultures, with a particular focus on the Peranakan culture. There’s also an interactive station where you’ll be able to virtually design your very own fukusa. Don’t forget to download it once you’re done.
