Earlier this year, the Tomioka Silk Mill and Related Sites was declared a World Heritage. The other day, a number of those Gunma-based silk artisans were certified National Treasures by the Japanese government. It seems the silk industry in Gunma has been enjoying an increasing amount of much-deserved attention. The Museum Shop at Hara Museum ARC is thus proud to offer a variety of silk accessories, stoles and other goods made by Gunma artisans.
These include a line of 100% silk items that is part of the Sphere series of accessories by Kasamori Co., Ltd. (in Kiryu). All items are wholly made in Gunma prefecture by a small number of artisans using precious Gunma-produced silk thread. The products boast a beautifully smooth luster that is different from metal and natural stones and an organic sheen that complements the skin. The casual appearance of these items make them suitable even for formal occasions.
Sphere Silk / SPS001 100% silk, 1.3cmx52cm 12,960 yen (tax included)
Sphere Silk / SPS002 100% silk, 1.3cmx70cm 19,440 yen (tax included)
Sphere Silk / SPS003 100% silk, 1cmx90cm 8,640 yen (tax included)
Sphere Silk / SPS004 100% silk, 0.8cmx115cm 10,800 yen (tax included)
100% silk has the added benefit of being hand-washable, and a durability that promises many years of safe use, even by those allergic to metal.
The Sphere series received the 2014 Good Design Gunma Grand Prize. The Good Design Gunma Prize was established to promote good design in products and management strategies and greater understanding and interest in design in order to enrich the lives of prefectural residents. The prize has been given out since 1993.
Other silk goods made by Gunma-connected artisans available at the Museum Shop include embroidered flower corsages by Emi Takazawa, stoles by Yu Okano and dyed pierce earrings by Natsuki Otaki. We hope you stop by during your next visit to the museum, but be sure to come before January 5, 2015 when Hara Museum ARC closes for the winter!
The Museum Shop @ Hara Museum ARC
TEL: 0279-24-6585
E-mail: arc@haramuseum.or.jp
※ Please note that admission to the museum is required to access the shop or cafe.