A Generous Length of Katazome Dyed Hand Spun Cotton: Roundels as Roundels

kalate nineteenth century
74 1/2" x 13 1/2", 189 cm x 34.5 cm

This length of indigo dyed katazome cloth is hand woven from hand spun cotton yarns, the overall surface fading on the piece shows off the textural aspect of this feature very well.

The images which create the repeat pattern on this length are auspicious in nature.

Pine is a symbol of long life and conjugal fidelity. The reason pine symbolizes conjugal fidelity is because pine needles fall in pairs, the allusion is clear. In the case of this pattern a rooted sprig of young pine is shown so this variant of pine conveys a wish for progeny as the roots symbolize the procreative element.

What is interesting about the images of the cranes is is that the cranes are shown in the form of a roundel. Then, three of these roundels are configured to make a larger roundel. Like the pine, the crane is a symbol of both long life and marital fidelity.

The length is in used, faded condition and its repeat pattern, although made of often-seen design elements, is configured in such a way as to make it fresh and, in some ways, unusual.

Recommended.