Cyprinus carpio varieties glide through monochromatic space, their ornamental forms rendered in black against white or reversed. Lorente depicts nishikigoi—Japanese ornamental carp—through graphic simplification where colour patterns become tonal contrast and flowing movement freezes into decorative arrangement.
The pattern shows koi in varied poses: bodies curved suggesting water navigation, fins extended, barbels visible as identifying features. Traditional koi breeding produces elaborate colour patterns—kohaku's red and white, sanke's tricolour, bekko's marked bodies—here translated into black-and-white graphic treatment emphasizing form over chromatic variety. The monochromatic palette references Japanese ink painting traditions (sumi-e) where minimal colour conveys maximum information. Koi carry cultural significance beyond decoration: symbols of perseverance, strength, good fortune in Japanese tradition, their upstream swimming representing determination. Scale reads bold, individual fish substantial enough to register as distinct elements.
Printed in Cornwall with attention to maintaining smooth curves and fluid lines essential to depicting swimming motion within static pattern.
Lorente suits bathrooms where aquatic themes feel thematically coherent, or bedrooms and meditation spaces where koi's contemplative associations enhance atmospheric intention. The monochromatic treatment provides sophistication preventing literal pond recreation. Works as feature walls or full room application; the black-white contrast maintains impact without colour saturation. Pairs with minimal furnishings, natural materials, Japanese-influenced aesthetics valuing simplicity and symbolic content.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
- Width: 75cm per roll
- Length: 7 metres
- Pattern alignment: Straight match
- Repeat: Large vertical repeat
- Installation: Butt joint
CARE: Wipe gently with damp cloth; the graphic contrast maintains clarity despite minor surface marks.
BRING THIS HOME Where ornamental carp swim monochrome waters, walls contain Cyprinus perseverance without requiring pond maintenance.
Sisuverse Journal | Nest & Nurtured
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