A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Filigreed Chrysanthemums

early twentieth century
57 1/2" x 13 3/4", 146 cm x 35 cm

This is a beautifully realized length of deep toned, indigo cotton that was dyed in the katazome method. The image is one that is seen from time to time which is chrysanthemums shown from the back amid a field of trailing vine or karakusa as it is called in Japan.

What is interesting about this rendition of the motif is that it is composed entirely of dots which gives a delicate, filigreed effect to the pattern.

Also interesting about this pattern is that the repeat pattern is broken, meaning there is evidence of how the repeat is created by the horizontal dark lines that indicate the size and placement of the stencil used in the resist dyeing process.

The overall condition of this piece is good and used and the indigo tone is still quite dark and rich. One small hole near the selvedge is illustrated on the accompanying detail photo here.

A beauty.