Elephants carry memories and playfulness: WABISUKE's "Elephant Print Wallet Bag (Mini)" and a cultural journey
Elephants carry memories and playfulness - WABISUKE's "Elephant Print Wallet Bag (Mini)" and a cultural journey
One day, a small clasp dangles from the handle of your bag. The elephant-patterned textile is adorable and somehow nostalgic. WABISUKE's "Elephant Print Wallet Bag (Mini)" is more than just a small accessory case. While enclosing your everyday essentials—keys, coins, lipstick, earphones—it invites you on a journey through distant memories and culture.
Little elephant, big story
Elephants have captured the human imagination since ancient times, their large bodies, kind eyes, long trunks and large ears giving them a wealth of meaning in myths, folklore, religion and art.
In India, elephants are worshipped as "Ganesha," the god of wisdom and prosperity, and in China they are considered a symbol of stability and longevity in Feng Shui. In Japan, elephants are also popular as lucky charms. Elephants symbolize strength and calmness, memory and family love.
WABISUKE's elephant design is based on the cultural background of the elephant, and combines playfulness with a Japanese sensibility. The palm-sized purse is filled with memories from around the world.
Remove the string and use it however you like
The appeal of this mini bag lies in its versatility. If you remove the strap, you can attach it to the handle of your bag and use it as a charm, or slip it into your pocket and use it as a small accessory case. It can beautifully store small everyday items like keys and coins, as well as lipstick and smartphone earphones.
The clasp closure opens and closes smoothly, and the size is comfortable in the hand. Although it is a Japanese item, its cross-cultural appearance blends naturally with Western clothing, a unique aesthetic that is characteristic of WABISUKE.
The day elephants first arrived in Japan
Now, a little bit of history here.
Elephants first came to Japan in 1408 during the Muromachi period, when an envoy from the Ming Dynasty (China) presented them as a gift to Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimochi. The people of Kyoto were amazed, frightened, and fascinated by the giant animals they had never seen before.
Elephants were also introduced during the Edo period. In 1728 (the 13th year of the Kyoho era), an elephant arrived in Nagasaki as a gift from Vietnam, walked to Edo, and met with Shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune. This elephant became known as the "Kyoho Elephant," and became a hot topic among the common people, being depicted in ukiyo-e prints and woodblock prints.
Elephants were not just rare animals; they were a symbol of communication with foreign countries, a symbol of power, and a source of curiosity for the common people.
Elephants and memory - something that overlaps with WABISUKE's philosophy
Elephants are also known as "animals of memory." They use their long trunks to search for water, mourn the deaths of their companions, and remember events that occurred years ago. Their memory supports the bonds between family members and their herd.
WABISUKE also treasures memories. Family activities, the changing of the seasons, scenes from Showa-era anime and everyday life—these are carefully woven together and imbued into products and spaces. The elephant-print wallet bag (mini) is a symbol of these memories, and will accompany you in your daily life.
The small elephant swaying inside the bag gently wraps around the owner's memories and carries them into the future.
Traveling Goods: Walking with Elephants
This mini bag is perfect for travel, whether you're strolling the backstreets of Kyoto, taking a long train ride, or just everyday shopping or commuting. Attach it to the handle of your bag for a subtle accent, or slip it into your pocket for practical storage.
This small purse gently encases memories of the scenery and people you encountered on your travels. When you imagine this, carrying it around becomes a story in itself.
A playful spirit in textiles
WABISUKE textiles combine traditional Japanese motifs with a touch of modern humor. The elephant print is no exception, somewhat comical yet elegant. The softness of the colors and lines soothes the wearer's spirit.
This playful spirit is also reminiscent of the worldview of Showa-era anime and picture books. Some people may recall the stories "Babar the Elephant" and "Elmer's Adventures" that they read as children.
Everyday beauty, embodied in culture
The elephant print wallet bag (mini) is not just a simple item, but a cultural tool. History, memories, and playfulness are all condensed into a single clasp.
The elephant swaying inside the bag brings moments of connection with culture to your everyday life.
The WABISUKE elephant print wallet bag (mini) is also available for purchase online. The moment you pick it up, your journey through memories and culture begins.
What animal will add a story to your life next?