These beautiful embroidered Temari balls are all made by a 92-year-old grandma from Japan. What are Temari balls? They are embroidered balls that represent a folk art originated in China, which was introduced in Japan in the 7th century A.D. Temari means “Hand ball” in Japanese and they are used in different handball games.
Temari balls were a part of the traditional Japanese kimonos and were made of piece of silk fabric bundled to form a ball.
Although the Japan grandmother learned the art of making Temari balls just 6 years ago, since then she has managed to create nearly 500 uniquely embroidered pieces. We are able to enjoy this incredible art thanks to her granddaughter Nana Akua who is a photographer.
Just like everything in Japan, in order to become a grandmaster in something you have to meet specific requirements, undergo training and testing. Therefore, this grandmother should be one very talented and motivated 92-year-old woman to become a recognized Temari craftsman in such a short period of time.
Back in the days, Temari balls were a highly priced gift given to children by their parents on the New Year’s Day and other big holidays. Temari balls were used as a toy and as a beautiful decoration at the same time. They are believed to bring good fortune and a happy life. In some markets, you can find Temari balls with rice grains inside that are added just for fun, while balls that are more traditional would have a small hand-written piece of paper with a good will.
