Entropydesign Metal Bookmark - Cherry Blossom Utagawa Hiroshige

Country of Manufacture: United States / Material: Brass Product Size: Length approximately 11.4cm x Width approximately 2.5cm / Package Size: Height 19.8cm x Width 6.3cm (set on paper backing, in transparent sleeve) This bookmark features designs representative of Japan, such as ukiyo-e by Hokusai, Hiroshige, and Utamaro, as well as bijin-ga by Takehisa Yumeji and Nishikigoi. It is highly appreciated as a gift for people overseas. The main body is made of brass, with a plating process applied to prevent discoloration, and the design is expressed using giclée printing, which is also used for art pieces. It comes with a decorative accent color string, ensuring it functions well even when placed in a book. Among the bookmarks from David Howell, this design ranks in the top three in popularity. The popularity of cherry blossoms is not limited to Japan. The National Cherry Blossom Festival has been held grandly in Washington State for over 100 years. This bookmark is also very popular as a souvenir from that festival. There is an ancient word that represents spring: "Sakuradoki." This refers to the season when cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, reflecting the special feelings that Japanese people have for cherry blossoms since ancient times. Cherry blossoms symbolize "beginnings" and "prosperity," and at the moment the flowers bloom, people express gratitude for nature's blessings and pray for safety. The moments spent admiring cherry blossoms during hanami are not merely customs but a special joy that resonates with the deep aesthetic sense and auspiciousness of the Japanese people.