Vintage Pair Japanese KAIAWASE MATCHING GAME Seashells Hand painted/ print with Theatrical Subject.
Description: This outstanding work of art is transformed Japanese woodblock print technique from papers to a pair of Kaiawase game seashells. On the surface of the seashells showing extra hand finish work. It is outstanding and breathtaking.
Dimensions: Measures the seashells 3- 1/3” wide by 2 ½” high x 1” deep.
Time period: Ca. late 19th century- early 20th century. .
Artist: Unknown.
Condition: Excellent, no damages or chips.
About Kaiawase MATCHING Game Shells :
It originally played among the noblewomen in Kyoto from as early as the 9th century right through until the end of the 19th century.
A full set of kaiawase - 360 shells - was a prized addition to a brides wedding gifts. Perfectly fitting pairs of clam shells were painted with matching images, thus, the game symbolized a happy marriage