A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Hexagons and Stylized Flowers

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
32 1/2" x 14", 82.5 cm x 35.5 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed, hand spun, hand woven cotton cloth that shows a complex design based on a repeat pattern of hexagons.

In traditional Japanese design the hexagon is a stand-in or is a symbol of tortoise shell. As the tortoise lives a very long life the hexagon is a wish for longevity.

Inside each of the hexagonal cells is a flamboyantly rendered, imaginary flower. Each of the flowers is tinged with an iron oxide-derived pigment dye called bengara in Japan.

The repeat is rich and varied and it could very well have been designed to give the impression of a luxurious brocade silk textile.

It is a lovely design, very ambitious in its execution--and is of great quality.

Recommended.