A Length of Nagoya Sarasa: Low Contrast, Pale Toned, Large Repeat

early twentieth century
66" x 13 1/2", 167.5 cm x 34 cm

This is a beautifully designed length of cotton of a type referred to as Nagoya sarasa.

Sarasa is the Japanese term given to Indian trade cloth, so referring to this as sarasa  indicates that the design on this length gives a nod to cloth of Indian orgin.

The design of the pattern is large in scale and the restrained color and close value contrast of the colors makes for an elegant length of cloth.

The design is complex. It is governed by parallel, curving, vertically-oriented lines called tatewaku in Japan. Inside these lines are images of stylized chrysanthemums, clouds and phoenixes all rendered in a precise yet reductive manner.

The length is hand stitched from two pieces (shown) and shows about two or three small, faint stains (shown).

An interesting length of cloth, probably dating to the 1930s or 40s, this fancifully designed length of cotton is a bit of a rarity and is in good, used condition.

Lovely.