Meiji Textiles - Embroidered Elegance and Symbolism in Silk
The Malcolm Fairley Gallery offers a curated selection of Meiji textiles, highlighting the richness and refinement of Japanese artistry from the Meiji period (1868–1912). These pieces, ranging from framed panels to screens and wall hangings, reflect the era’s dedication to craftsmanship, cultural symbolism and exquisite visual storytelling.
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A large silk embroidery worked in relief with two tasselled floral hangings
Meiji period, circa 1900
SOLD A silk embroidery depicting dragons amongst stylized clouds
Meiji period, circa 1900
The Art of Meiji Textiles
Meiji textiles were often created using intricate techniques such as silk and metallic-thread embroidery, couched goldwork, yuzen birodo (resist dyed and cut velvet) and elaborate weaving. These works typically depict motifs drawn from nature, or scenes from classical literature and legend, rendered with remarkable precision and fluidity. Artists in the Meiji period elevated textile art to new heights, producing pieces for imperial gifts, international exhibitions, and elite private clients.
Why Collect Meiji Textiles?
To collect Meiji textiles is to engage with a tactile form of art that blends narrative depth with material sophistication. These textiles are admired not only for their technical beauty but also for their cultural resonance. Each panel or fragment serves as a visual archive of Japan’s decorative heritage and aesthetic ideals.
Museum-Quality Meiji Period Works
Our collection of Meiji textiles includes pieces that once adorned temple interiors, elite residences or were created for international display. Many of these works exemplify Japan’s global artistic dialogue in the late 19th century. Whether mounted as individual panels or preserved in their original form, they remain rare survivals of a delicate art form.
A Specialist Source for Meiji Textiles
With decades of expertise, Malcolm Fairley is proud to present Meiji textiles of exceptional condition and provenance. Each work is rigorously researched and carefully presented, appealing to collectors, designers and institutions seeking culturally significant and visually stunning pieces.
View the Collection in Central London
We invite you to view our collection of Meiji textiles at our Central London gallery or by appointment. These works are a testament to Japan’s enduring artistic excellence, subtle yet powerful expressions in thread, silk and gold.