The lobster is rare motif for obi…These pieces are hard to find and tend to be expensive. This nagoya obi is made of a medium texture white silk and is in great condition. The lobster is painted on and has nice gold accents. The woven cream silk is slightly nubby and attractive.

Measurements:

Width: 32cm 12.6 inches

Length” 355cm 139.8 inches

Condition:

There are some stains and folding marks, pictures provided.

Name: Ebi (海老) lobster/shrimp

Seasonal Association Winter

When To Wear It: all year

Auspicious: yes

History: Ebi can play two different roles as a motif, that of a seasonal motif, and that of an auspicious motif.

Seasonal: Ebi is a staple ingredient in Osechi, the traditional New Year’s selection of food.

Auspicious: The hunched back and whiskers of the ebi are features that are also attributed to an old man and because of this, ebi is considered a symbol of long life. It is often nicknamed the old man of the sea.

Ebi can also be referred to as Ise Ebi (伊勢海老) which is a particular species of spiny lobster found in Mie prefecture.

Identification: Ebi will resemble a lobster or a shrimp with a curved back, long whiskers on its face, and six legs.