Yuusoku - The Pattern of Imperial Design

‘Yuusoku’ are traditional Japanese motifs based on designs from Heian courtly decoration, a repertoire which originated from Tang Chinese influence in the 8th and 9th centuries. Gradually these motifs came to be transformed into designs for decorating imperial or state clothing and objects according to family status or court rank. Today ‘yuusoku’ is used to distinguish all of the motifs and patterns traditionally used by the imperial family on objects of both public and private function and in a variety materials. This volume shows myriad examples of such motifs, specifically as they appear on textiles and ceramics. These include abstract, often geometrised images from nature.