A Length of Brown Toned Kumanozome Cotton: Some Damage

late nineteenth century
64" x 13 1/4", 162.5 cm x 33.5 cm 

This is a good-sized length of a wonderful old type of stenciled cotton known as Kumanozome. You will see there are holes to the length--and a faint stain to the center of the cloth--which are pictured on the detail images here, however they do not distract from the visual enjoyment of this historical fabric. 

Kumanozome refers to a place of origin, an area near present-day Okayama Prefecture: Kumano is well-known for producing this type of optically entrancing cloth.  

Kumanozome is immediately recognizable for its decidedly "Op Art" moire effect of undulating, crossing lines. Sometimes contrasting colors and values were used to heighten this effect while this one is stenciled from two tones of brown or rust colors.

This fragment was taken from a futon cover.

A lovely, very collectible piece of distinctly dyed cotton from old Japan in slightly damaged, used condition.

Recommended.