The Ashikaga clan, a powerful samurai clan that ruled Japan during the Muromachi period (1336-1573), was famous for their patronage of the arts and handcrafts (kougei). One of the crafts they helped to flourish was gold glazing, or Ashikaga no Kinsai Kougei. Using techniques adopted from China, artisans began using gold and silver foil or metal powder to decorate kimonos and folding screens. By using different techniques – for example, shredding and cutting the foil – they were able to create an array of elaborate and colorful designs.