Karakuri Tamashii Reversible Sukajan, Storm Dragon and Mount Fuji, Goldfish and Lotus Embroidery, Size L

Dragon fire on one side, floating serenity on the other: this Karakuri Tamashii sukajan sets a storm dragon beneath Mount Fuji and golden lightning on ivory satin, then reverses to kingyo goldfish gliding above lotus on black and gold. A wearable diptych of mythic power and aquatic elegance.

The Piece

A dramatic reversible sukajan from Karakuri Tamashii, presenting two complete visions of Japanese decorative art. One face combines ivory satin with black sleeves and a powerful storm dragon twisting beneath Mount Fuji, red flames and golden lightning; the other is a black-and-gold composition of ornamental goldfish, flowing water lines and blooming lotus. Bold without becoming chaotic, it balances mythic power with aquatic elegance.

On the ivory face, a large charcoal-gray dragon dominates the back, its serpentine body coiling through red flame-like forms, with sharply articulated scales, claws and whiskers in a dynamic tattoo-inspired composition. Mount Fuji rises behind in pale silver-gray thread while angular golden lightning splits the sky, and smaller matching dragons on the chest give the front a symmetrical, recognizable presentation. The palette is restrained: warm ivory satin, black sleeves and shoulder panels, charcoal and silver embroidery, deep red flames, golden lightning and black-and-ivory striped ribbing.

The reverse turns darker and more ornamental. A black satin ground framed by muted gold sleeves carries three goldfish in red, ivory, silver and gold thread, moving through scrolling golden water above a bed of lotus, their long fins lending grace and motion; two more goldfish on the chest make a refined front that can be worn on its own. This side draws on Japanese pond painting, textile ornament and contemporary wagara streetwear.

The ryū is traditionally associated with strength, protection, wisdom and elemental power, and unlike many Western dragons with water, weather and clouds. The lightning brings divine force and sudden transformation; Mount Fuji, stability and permanence against restless energy. Kingyo have long been admired in Japan for ornamental beauty and are linked with prosperity, abundance, elegance and the pleasures of summer, while the lotus, rising cleanly from muddy water, speaks of purity, renewal and spiritual resilience. Karakuri Tamashii is known in Japan for densely embroidered wagara clothing that turns traditional and popular motifs into statement streetwear, and this jacket is a modern reinterpretation of the Yokosuka souvenir jacket rather than a postwar military-era original. It may be worn or displayed as textile art with either face outward.

Details

• Maker: Karakuri Tamashii (絡繰魂)
• Era: Heisei era or early twenty-first century (assessment)
• Origin: Japan
• Material: Appears to be lustrous satin-finish rayon or a comparable synthetic blend; dense machine embroidery; rib-knit trim
• Color: Dragon face: ivory body, black sleeves. Goldfish face: black body, muted gold sleeves
• Size: L (manufacturer's tag); Japanese L often fits closer to a Western Medium
• Construction: Fully reversible, both sides finished as complete jackets; raglan-style sleeves; contrasting sleeve panels; central metal zipper; slanted welt pockets on both faces; rib-knit collar, cuffs and waistband; piped seam accents
• Motifs: Dragon, Mount Fuji, lightning, flames, goldfish, water and lotus

Condition

• Vintage pre-owned condition with visible age-related character.
• The ivory and pale gold areas show noticeable discoloration, uneven toning, marks and surface patina; wrinkling, handling wear and general fabric variation are present throughout, particularly on the lighter panels.
• The embroidery remains visually strong and detailed, and both faces retain substantial decorative impact.
• Additional photographs of the embroidery, zipper, ribbing, lining or discoloration may be available on request.

Authenticity & Care

Bears recognizable Karakuri Tamashii branding; a modern Japanese reinterpretation, not represented as a postwar military-era sukajan. Every piece is examined and documented in Japan before dispatch and is offered with the Japonista authenticity guarantee.

Delivery from Japan

Packed by hand in Japan and shipped insured and tracked by EMS or an equivalent express service. Import duties and taxes, where applicable, are payable on arrival. Returns follow our published policy.

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