A Length of Katazome Cotton: Folding Fans

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
36 1/2" x 12 1/2", 92.5 cm x 32 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed cotton katazome cloth that was taken from a futon cover.

The repeat pattern on this cloth is playful: it shows folding fans in two columns and in two directions. Artfully interspersed between these fans are images of silk cording which twist and turn and add a visual rhythm to the length.

In Japan, the folding fan symbolizes "the opening of things" so it is appropriate that it is sometimes used on textiles that compose a bride's wedding trousseau. The piece came from a futon cover which was more than likely part of a large group of gifts a bride was outfitted with before she left her family home in order to live with her husband (and often his family.)

The drawing of the design is lighthearted and the overall mood as depicted on this length of indigo dyed cotton cloth is uplifting.