. . "This textile cover is called a \u2018fukusa\u2019. Traditionally in Japan, gifts were placed in a box on a tray, over which a fukusa was draped. The choice of a fukusa appropriate to the occasion was an important part of the gift-giving ritual. The richness of the decoration was an indication of the donor\u2019s wealth, and the quality of the design evidence of his or her taste and sensibility. This fukusa is beautifully embroidered with the image of an elephant being washed. In 1798 two elephants were taken to Japan. Their apperance aroused great interest and excitement, and one of them was presented to the sh\u00F4gun (military leader). The design on this fukusa implies that the gift it covers is likewise a great rarity that has been carefully prepared."@en . .