A Length of Burned and Re-configured Stencil Dyed Cotton: Iron Oxide Derived Dye

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
48" x 13 1/2", 122 cm x 34 cm

This is a length of hand woven, hand spun cotton cloth that was dyed in using stencils and an iron oxide derived dye which, in Japan, is referred to as bengara. This bengara dyed cloth is often called bengarazome.

The pattern is complex as it is constructed of the interlocking circle motif called shippo tsunagi. Within each of the circles is a stylized chrysanthemum.

This well-faded length is made from pieces that are stitched together with black thread. The back of the length is shown because there is visual interest in the piecing of the cloth and there is also some curiosity in looking at the pieces because the edges look as if they were burned.

The stitched and fractured pattern on front of the length is subtle for its visual surprises which is one of the many reasons to enjoy looking at this length.