A Beautiful Katazome Han Juban: Trellis and Cherry Blossoms

early twentieth century
24" x 25", 61" x 63 1/2"

This is a beautifully patterned, katazome dyed and hand stitched, old indigo dyed cotton han juban, a half under-kimono.

The cotton is heavy and densely hand-woven; it appears to be woven from hand spun cotton yarns. The indigo dye is still very dark and rich in tone--this han juban seems to be very lightly used, if it was at all.

The spirited pattern is one of fancifully-rendered cherry blossoms which are set against a background of some kind of trellis or lattice: the intention of the design is to appear hand-drawn. The lines composing the trellis and the cherry blossoms are uneven and give the appearance of sketch or quick drawing.

In good, used condition, this is a marvelous authentic garment from old Japan.

Recommended.