A Length of Shibori Dyed Cotton: Traditional Hemp Leaf Pattern

early to mid twentieth century
26" x 13", 66 cm x 33 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed cotton shibori that was produced in Arimatsu, one of the towns in Aichi prefecture that was a leading producer and innovator in the production of shibori. 

The pattern is an inventive variation on the traditional asanoha or traditional hemp leaf pattern, and there are endless variations on this design. This particular one shows the motif as rendered in large scale using small tie dyed spots to create the repeat pattern.

The tie dyed pattern is dyed onto a length of commercially loomed, fairly lightweight cotton and is in good, used condition.