Ukiyo-e Furoshiki Wrapping Cloth – "Fashionable Cats Playing Handball" by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, Ivory, approx. 48 x 48 cm

This delightful artwork by Utagawa Kuniyoshi, known for his love of cats, features anthropomorphized felines performing an acrobatic act originally made famous by the Edo-period performer Kikugawa Kunimaru.

The piece depicts scenes such as "Yaezakura," where a cat skillfully rolls a ball across its body, and "Midair Ball Kick across Stakes," where a cat charmingly kicks a ball while crossing stakes with its tiny feet.

In Japanese culture, the "mari" (decorative ball) has long symbolized the wish for a child to grow up healthy and well-rounded—both physically and emotionally—due to its round shape. It also represents harmony in the home and marriage, and the idea of “bringing things to a happy resolution.” For these reasons, mari motifs have traditionally been included in bridal gifts.

This furoshiki is perfect not only for use as a tapestry or framed art, but also for wrapping bento lunch boxes, book covers, or gift wrapping in everyday life.