A Length of Densely Patterned Katazome Cotton: Complex Design

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
32 1/4" x 13 3/4", 82 cm x 35 cm

This is a wonderful length of katazome dyed cloth that shows a intensely complex repeat pattern.

The pattern is based on a diamond structure which could also be seen as a traditional well cover motif. Within the "arms" of this pattern we see what might also be a miniaturized well cover motif or perhaps it can also be read as a character for the word rice. 

Within the boundaries of the diamond pattern we see a repeat of very small hemp leaf motif, beautiful in its accuracy and detail.

What is remarkable about this length is that is stencil resist dyed on both sides so the pattern is as clear on the back as it is on the front: katazome cloth with this characteristic is noteworthy.

Such a nice length of old katazome and one with a super interesting, complex repeat pattern.