A Length of Unused Katazome Dyed Cotton: Highly Unusual Design

early twentieth century
28" x 13 1/2", 71 cm x 34 cm

This is a crisp to the touch and seemingly unused length of indigo dyed cotton that has been created in the katazome method.

The pattern is odd and complex, it is rather rare and is full of interesting and small, visual surprises.

There are cube-like shapes that are probably a reference to paving stones. Interspersed with them are diamonds and hexagons that are filled with a kind of striped moire type design.

However it is the background that is the biggest surprise because if you look closely it is a pattern that is meant to mimic a kasuri pattern called kagasuri or "mosquito kasuri" because the minuscule warp and weft design are as small as mosquitoes. A very nice touch.

The cloth seems not to have been used and as such the color is deep, rich and vibrant.

Recommended.