noun
nanako; fish-roe pattern; raised dot metal decoration
A traditional Japanese metal surface finish consisting of a regular pattern of tiny raised dots, resembling fish eggs. Used on sword fittings, metalwork, and decorative objects.
この鍔には七子が施されている。
This sword guard is decorated with a nanako pattern.
七子仕上げの銀器は高級品とされる。
Silverware with a nanako finish is considered a luxury item.
noun
twill weave; basket weave
Abbreviation of 魚子織り (ななこおり). A textile weave pattern resembling the nanako metal finish. Used in fabric descriptions.
See also: 魚子織り
この帯は魚子織りで、略して魚子とも呼ばれる。
This obi is a nanako weave, also called simply 'nanako' for short.
Full term for the textile weave; 七子 is the abbreviation.
The name comes from the resemblance of the raised dot pattern to fish eggs (魚の子). The kanji 七子 is a phonetic ateji, while 魚子 directly reflects the meaning.