ALEXANDRA AGUILAR DOMÉRACKI

Woolley & Wallis Your Japanese embroidery is a lovely token of affection. Your father chose well, as cranes ( tsuru in Japanese) mate for life and are a symbol in Japanese art, often used to represent marital happiness. The red- crowned crane in particular is a recurrent pattern used in wedding decor and on clothing. Associated with pines, the elegant bird also symbolises longevity, endurance and happiness, which makes it a very auspicious subject. Your embroidery probably dates from the early 20th century and was made as a souvenir for the West. At auction, I would value it at £ 40–£ 60.