A Length of Boldly Graphic Katazome Dyed Cotton: Hand Spun Yarns

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
35" x 13", 89 cm x 33 cm

This is a bold, richly dyed length of indigo katazome cloth that shows a complex repeat design.

The overall design is based on a pattern called matsukawabishi or stylized pine bark. Inside each of the dark pine cells is an abstracted flower, perhaps a melon flower. In the light colored cells is more stylized vegetation, maybe ginger.

The snippets of design as seen within the individual units of the pattern is interesting to look at and from the conceptual point of view it is sophisticated.

The cloth itself is wonderful for its hand spun yarns, a characteristic that is desirable in Japanese folk textiles, and this length shows off this texture quite well.

The condition is good and used: the dye is still deep and there are no flaws or indication of wear.