Traditional Crafts

Kurume Okiage Raised Cloth PicturesFolk Crafts

"Okiage" refers to a traditional type of Japanese craftwork that is similar to a collage, where cotton is added to bright cloth etc. to create works with a three-dimensional appearance. They are used as decorative items, such as wall hangings, with typical designs that include flamboyant dolls and kabuki actors. There was a booming okiage industry in the Chikugo area from the late 19th century when they were made by specialist artisans, but today local housewives are the ones who carry on this tradition.