This pattern is designed to depict a land-scape of autumn leaves flowing in running water.
Its name comes from the Tatsuta-gawa River in Nar a Prefecture,
which is famous for its autumn leaves.
In the Kokin Wakashu, its beauty is likened to brocade (a noble t extile):
“Autumn leaves flow in turbulence on the Tatsutagawa River, and if I cr oss it,
the brocade will likely break in the middle.”
This is a pattern that combines cherry blossoms and autumn leaves,
which are representative of spring and autumn. It is called "unkin" (meaning "cloud brocade")
because the cherry blossoms are likened to clouds and the autumn leaves are likened to brocade
(a noble textile). It boldly expresses the feeling of admiring the changing colors of autumn leaves and
eagerly looking forward to the cherry blossoms,
which is unique to Japanese people who enjoy the changing seasons.
Chrysanthemums were introduced to Japan as a medicinal herb during the Nara period,
and during the Heian period, chrysanthemum banquets came to be held during
the Chrysanthemum Festival to pray for good health and longevity.
This is a gorgeous auspicious pattern with chrysanthemum flowers, inspired by
decorative knots and set against a delicate leaf design.