When called, he jumps out: The story of the purse and the devil
Jump out when called - The story of the clasp and the Demon King. Showa-era anime and Japanese accessories tell the story of nostalgia and magic.
1. The Magic Pot and the Purse: What Appears When You "Open" It
The anime "The Genie Family" began airing in 1969.
The setting that appealed to children, in which the Demon King pops out of a jar when you sneeze, is still remembered by many people today.
The Demon King always carried a clasp pouch with an arabesque pattern hanging from his shoulder.
At first glance, it may seem like a joke, but in fact, this purse may have functioned as an important "magic tool" in the story.
From this perspective, I would like to shed some light on this small item.
A pot and a purse.
Both are vessels that "reveal something when opened."
The jar is a magical source that grants wishes.
A clasp purse is a small magic hidden in everyday life.
These two vessels may have quietly resonated within the story as symbols of "retrieving what cannot be seen."
2. The History of Clasp Purses: A Shape Inherent in Japanese Lifestyle
Gamaguchi is a style of wallet that developed uniquely in Japan based on metal fittings introduced from Europe towards the end of the Edo period.
It became widely popular during the Meiji period, and by the Showa period it had become an everyday item enjoyed by people of all ages and genders.
Its distinctive feature is its structure that opens and closes with a "snap" sound.
There's something nostalgic and comforting about this sound, and it even feels like opening a door into time.
Also, because it has an opening, it is considered a lucky charm and has become popular as a wallet that brings good fortune.
Furthermore, the arabesque pattern on the Demon King's purse has long been an auspicious motif signifying "prosperity" and "longevity."
The sight of the vines stretching endlessly symbolizes the continuity of life and the inheritance of memories.
3. Devil's Purse - The Gentleness of Showa Retro
The character designs in "The Genie Family" are somewhat reminiscent of the "image of a Showa-era man."
He's clumsy and a glutton, but somehow you can't help but like him.
The Demon King was carrying a clasp with an arabesque pattern hanging from his shoulder.
This was also an item that often appeared in characters such as thieves, merchants, and father figures from the Showa era.
By holding a clasp, the Demon King was portrayed as a "domestic and friendly being."
It is an existence that blends into everyday life, while carrying the extraordinary burden of magic.
In other words, the Demon King may have been a character who embodied "Japanese humor" and "family-like kindness."
4. WABISUKE's Perspective: Poetry Residing in Purses
At WABISUKE, we find "space for a story" in these everyday small items.
A clasp purse is not just a wallet, but a container for storing memories and taking them out from time to time.
The arabesque pattern is a trace of life that continues beyond time.
And the Demon King's smile is a symbol of Japanese humor and kindness.
Every time I open my purse, I feel like I can hear a sneeze somewhere.
This margin for imagination is the "form of poetry" that WABISUKE values.