November 23, 2004

• 11/2004 Sensouji Temple, Asakusa (Tokyo)

  

  They were taken in the Asakusa area of Tokyo at Sensouji, a famous temple.   Turn to the left in front of the temple building, and we begin a walk through an alley with several temporary booths from which people are selling traditional items. 

  

  The first man is selling equipment that one would use at one's family altar(note the bells placed upon red pillowed stands - dingggggg!) among other metal products.

  

   The lady is selling wooden tops.  She is quite skillful at spinning them and seems to enjoy demonstrating the fact.

   

  

  These are miniature kites, all about four inches or so high.  I think that they are meant to be decorative, and I have never actually tried to test their airworthiness.

   

  This fellow is selling fans.

  

  These are "kansashi," traditional hair ornaments that adorn updos of longer hair.  I don't know how much market there is for these ornaments nowadays.  The prices on the kansashi in the foreground (hundreds of $$ each) indicates that they would make very impressive gifts for ladies of long tress persuasion.

   

  This lady is getting some doll making lessons from a pro.

   

   

  Here are a couple of gentlemen engaged in everyday art. The first one is painting clay ornaments, and the second hunky dude (Excuse the editorial comment, but some things are difficult to overlook.) is lettering paper lanterns.

  

   

  I kind of like the moving shot, but attach the still shot also for those of you who prefer serener moments.

   

  These are traditional cotton cloths towels used for various and sundry purposes, but mostly in the kitchen.  I thought that this gentleman offered a colorful assortment.

   

  These thick silken cords are a part of kimono equipment, and this artist is giving a demonstration of how they are woven by hand.

   

  This knife vendor looks like he was present when all these old traditions were established!

   

  The last booth is selling Edo Kiriko cut glassware. 

   

   

  In the last picture we are ready to turn left to exit the temple grounds.  Please notice the flock of pigeons taking off in the background

  • 17:27
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