A most lively embroidery. You really get the impression that the fish are actually swimming.
This embroidery comes with a chicken wing wood (Jichimu) frame, a soft hardwood with beautiful grains resembling the pattern of bird feathers.
Embroidered Area: Circle Diameter 18.5cm
Total Size with Frame: Width 28cm x Height 37cm X Depth 9.5cm
Yu which means fish has a similar pronunciation to the word abundance or surplus. For this reason, it is a very auspicious symbol in Asian culture and is depicted in much Chinese art.
An image of a double fish is particularly noteworthy as it is then seen as a symbol of fertility and marriage, with the two fish representing the loving couple as they swim in harmony and unity through the ocean of life.
A legend also describes a story of a Koi swimming energetically against a strong river current. Further and further it progressed until it eventually arrived at the face of a waterfall, but still undeterred the Koi continued to climb until it reached the top. It was then transformed into a dragon, the most auspicious symbol in Chinese art.
This auspicious transformation is due to the dilligence and determination of the Koi, and for this reason the keeping of Koi has become something of a status symbol, which art depicting Koi also becoming popular. Finally, the image of a Koi can be used as suggestive of the benefits and transformations that can result through hard work.
