1 obi – 5 numbered clutches
Obis are of different types. We prefer the Fukuro Obi, a formal belt worn with a Furisode long sleeve Kimono. The inner side is made of plain silk. The outer side of the Obi is decorated, except for a part that is hidden when worn. The longer decorated end of the Obi usually has a band superimposed on the pattern that indicates the portion of the Obi that should be folded when tied.
The five pouches from the same Obi differ in their designs and are therefore unique. The first pouch, numbered 1/5, is decorated with a band, unlike the following ones.
The two sides of the Obis are sewn together. The plain inner side is used for the inside of the pouch. The number is embroidered before the pouch is assembled.
See our selection of clutches >
The golden ratio or the divine proportion
Our pouches are designed according to the proportions of the golden ratio. This proportion, named Phi in honour of the Greek sculptor Phidias, has an approximate value of 1.618.
Famous monuments such as the Pyramid of Cheops, the Parthenon or the theatre of Epidaurus are said to be built according to this harmonious proportion.
The Italian Renaissance was fascinated by the golden ratio: at the end of the 15th century, Luca Pacioli wrote a book entitled “The Divine Proportion”, illustrated by Leonardo da Vinci with his “Vitruvian Man”.
This classical proportion is indeed found in the human body. The length of a pouch corresponds to the length of the forearm, while the height corresponds to the length of the outstretched hand.
The atelier
The haute couture workshop is located in the village of Verzy in the Montagne de Reims Regional Nature Park. After having worked for the major Parisian fashion houses, the seamstresses of the workshop devote themselves to the tailoring of women’s clothing and accessories.
Verzy is famous for its forest which shelters the largest concentration in the world of twisted beech trees, an extremely rare genetic characteristic. These trees, called Faux de Verzy, resemble certain species of twisted trees planted in Japanese gardens.
