A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Tortoiseshell and Orange Details
$60.00 USD
late nineteenth century
34 1/4" x 13 1/4", 86.8 cm x 33.5 cm
This is a dark toned indigo dyed katazome cotton cloth that shows details of of the red toned bengara dye, that is to say an iron oxide derived pigment dye.
The pattern is that of hexagons floating in a field of arabesque against a white-stippled background.
The hexagon design is a significant one because it is short hand for tortoiseshell: the meaning of the tortoise is that of long life so this pattern is a wish for the longevity of the owner.
The tones are muted overall and the condition is good but used.
Very handsome and low-contrast this is a well designed and executed length of katazome dyed cotton.
