This listing is for a vintage Japanese maru-style obi from the Fuller Collection. See below for details on this exceptional group of Japanese textiles.

This obi features a traditional pattern of cranes and imperial carts - both auspicious elements - but look more closely to see that the cart is just decoration on a kai awase game box. Kai awase is a matching shell game and is stored in a multi-sided container similar to the one featured in this obi design.  See the half shells at the obi edges, each decorated with a different image to match.

The "pop of purple" creates a focal point on the box design, leaving the viewer to search a bit to discover the cranes flying just below.

Maru obi are patterned on both sides and are the full 14" width throughout. They are usually the most expensive version of an obi since they are patterned on both sides - even though one side will never be seen by the public. Maru obi are worn for the most formal occasions, such as weddings.

Excellent condition, silk and within the typical maru obi measurements: approximately 11 feet long in total and 14 inches wide.

See videos below for info about the different styles of obi as well as ways to display them.

The Fuller Collection - originally over 2000 pieces - was the passion and pride of Richard Fuller of Chicago, IL and Wabasha, MN. Richard served as a US Marine in post-war Japan, and there began his love of and appreciation for vintage Japanese kimono and obi. Richard saw that the mastery and artisanship of traditional Japanese textile techniques was waning - threatening to die out all together - which sparked his mission to promote this industry and preserve what he could.

Together with his wife Janith, Richard invested in thousands of kimono and obi, opening Wind Whisper West, a kimono Gallery in Wabasha in 2003. Most of the collection was sold there but several hundred pieces remain. Richard passed in 2020, and Janith has consigned the remainder of the collection to Kyoto Kimono to offer through our website. We are honored and proud to be stewarding the Fuller Collection as each piece finds its new home and continues to bring wonder and beauty to admirers around the world.