Page 33 - Koi Net - On-Line Koi Magazine - Issue 75
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In this article, we’ll explore the Showa, its origins, and body in bold, irregular bands that extend above and
why it’s considered one of the most prestigious Koi below the lateral line.
varieties. We’ll also look at its unique patterns, There are two aspects to sumi that influence the overall
development, and why this magnificent Koi is a must- look of a Showa. First is the quality of the colour itself;
have for any Koi collection.
sumi is best when it is a deep black and velvety or inky
What is a Showa Koi? in this style. The resulting intensity helps with the
contrast against the other two colours.
The full name of the Showa is Showa Sanshoku. The
name ‘Showa’ is taken from a historical period in Japan The other aspect is the sumi pattern. Sumi patterns in
called the Showa era. In Japan, historical periods are Showa are known for their dynamic and unpredictable
often defined by the reign of emperors, with each era nature but there are different styles which can greatly
reflecting the socio-political climate of the time. This influence a Showa’s overall appearance:
period in Japanese history is marked by the reign of
Steps or Blocks of Sumi (Nidan Sumi): Another
Emperor Hirohito from 1926 to 1989. The Showa era is
common style involves black appearing in distinct
noted for its dramatic transformations, encompassing
blocks or steps along the body of the Koi. The sumi
Japan’s transition from militarism to democracy,
wraps around the Koi starting below the lateral line and
significant economic growth, and cultural changes. The
wrapping above the lateral line. These sumi patches
Showa era was particularly impactful, witnessing both
often alternate with white and red in a checkerboard-
the devastation of World War II and the subsequent like pattern, creating a structured, balanced look. This
SHOWA KOI recovery that positioned Japan as a major global THESE SUMI style tends to be more geometric and orderly, giving the
BELONG economic power. This historical context adds depth to PATTERNS ARE Koi a bold, graphic quality.
the Showa Koi variety, symbolising resilience and
TO THE beauty that emerged from a time of change. TYPICALLY Calligraphy-Style Sumi (Kanji Sumi): This style of sumi
UTSURIMONO Showa Koi belong to the Utsurimono family, sharing resembles the bold, flowing brush strokes of Japanese
calligraphy. The black appears in strong, sweeping
their connection to the deep black base colour that BOLD AND
FAMILY defines the Utsuri varieties. However, unlike the DYNAMIC patterns that wrap around the Koi’s body, often forming
elegant, curved lines or bands. These sumi patterns are
Ki Utsuri or Shiro Utsuri, which feature black paired
typically bold and dynamic, and generally thin like a
with a single other colour, Showa Koi exhibit a tri-colour
brushstroke, standing out prominently against the white
scheme: black, red, and white. This complexity in their
and red areas of the Koi. When combined with a clean,
patterns makes Showa one of the most visually
white background and rich red, this sumi style can add
dynamic and sought-after varieties. With the intricate
a sense of artistry, and give the Koi a dramatic, flowing
patterns and the development of the three colours over
appearance.
time, it’s fitting that this Koi variety is named after the
Showa era. The Striking ‘Lightning’ or V-Shaped Head Sumi
(Menware): Menware is one of the most striking and
Appearance: The Hallmark of Showa highly sought-after sumi patterns on Showa Koi. It can
Sumi: take one of two forms. The most desirable and
dramatic is where the sumi forms a lightning-like stripe
A defining characteristic of Showa Koi is the black
that runs down the Koi’s head, dividing the head. The
(sumi) that emerges across the fish’s body. Unlike
other form is where sumi creates a ‘V’ shaped pattern
Sanke (another member of the Go Sanke group), where
at the back of the head where the head joins the
the black is found in smaller, pebble-like patches
shoulders.
mainly on the back, Showa sumi wraps around the
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