THE MEANINGS WOVEN IN
立涌
tatewaku
A wish for good things to keep rising.
Rising Steam
01
Where it comes from
Two wavy lines swell and narrow as they run upward, like steam or mist rising from the ground. The rising has long been read as good fortune welling up. It is one of the old patterns of the imperial court, and was worn on court robes. Inside each swelling, clouds, waves, or flowers were often placed, and the name changes with what it holds.
02
On the cloth
On kimono and obi, tatewaku runs in long vertical lines, often with clouds (kumo-tatewaku) or wisteria inside the swellings. The drifting clouds it holds are a pattern of their own; on one cream and gold obi here, they float between pine and plum.
03
To give
Tatewaku suits a promotion, an opening, or any new beginning you hope will keep going up. It is a quiet, formal choice for someone you respect.
