A Length of Taisho Sarasa: Small Pattern, Vaguely Indian Inspired

early twentieth century
43 1/2" x 14 1/4", 110.5 cm x 36 cm

Throughout centuries of Japan's history the upper classes admired and collected Indian trade cloth which they referred to as sarasa. Some of it was commissioned directly from India, specifying certain patterns and colors while other pieces were purchased directly from India and were dyed in traditional Indian patterns.

The Japanese admired sarasa so much that they started making their own cloth that suggested the original.

In the early twentieth century cloth of Japanese manufacture that was evocative of Indian trade cloth--but more in keeping with Japanese taste--became popular. However it was designed in different patterns and in different colors than the Indian inspiration. This piece is an example a vaguely Indian inspired cotton cloth of Japanese manufacture.

You can see this in the restrained pattern the subdued colors of similar value and the hand made look of the design, all quite beautiful.

The cotton is machine loomed, is tightly woven and almost silky in the hand and is fairly lightweight. 

The pattern is that of small, blunt diamond shapes interspersed with small dashes and squares.

This is a subtle and richly dyed length of cloth, quite lovely.