The Origins of Furoshiki
Furoshiki, a unique Japanese wrapping cloth, has a history that dates back to the Nara period (710-784). Among the treasures of the Shosoin Repository, furoshiki used for wrapping costumes for bugaku, a traditional Japanese court dance, have been discovered. This finding demonstrates the long history of furoshiki as a cloth for wrapping objects.
The Etymology of Furoshiki
The term “furoshiki” became widely used to refer to “a cloth spread in the bath” during the Muromachi period (1336-1573). In the steam baths of that time, cloths were often spread on the floor. This practice is believed to be the origin of the name “furoshiki.”
Furoshiki from the Muromachi to Edo Periods
From the Muromachi to the Edo period (1603-1868), furoshiki began to be used not only for wrapping clothes but also for wrapping gifts. It also became common to dye family crests or shop names on furoshiki. During the Edo period, furoshiki featuring beautiful patterns created using techniques such as stencil dyeing and tie-dyeing gained popularity as fashion items in addition to being practical objects.
Furoshiki from the Meiji Period Onward
In the Meiji period (1868-1912), furoshiki became widely used for everyday carrying purposes. Mass production of furoshiki made them more accessible to a larger number of people. During the Taisho period (1912-1926), the graphic designer Sugiura Hisui created highly artistic furoshiki designs.
After World War II, the demand for furoshiki temporarily decreased. However, from the 1960s onward, as environmental concerns grew, furoshiki regained attention.
Contemporary Furoshiki Culture
Today, furoshiki is garnering attention as an eco-friendly alternative to disposable packaging materials. The “Eco Furoshiki” movement, which promotes the use of furoshiki instead of plastic bags, has been gaining momentum, integrating furoshiki into modern lifestyles. Furoshiki has also gained popularity as a fashion item, with the trend of “furoshiki arranging” showcasing various ways to transform furoshiki into bags, scarves, and more.
Furoshiki, a symbol of Japan’s wrapping culture, has been nurtured throughout a long history, from the Nara period to the present day. Combining beauty and functionality, furoshiki represents Japanese aesthetics and creativity. As a cultural heritage, furoshiki will continue to be an integral part of Japanese life and be celebrated worldwide.
