A Length of Tsutsugaki Dyed Cotton: Three Auspicious Roundels

late nineteenth century
13 1/2" x 60 1/2", 34 cm x 154 cm 

This is an indigo dyed tsutsugaki panel taken from a futon cover and it shows three images designed as roundels.

Each of the images is powerfully auspicious which is not surprising: the futon cover from which this was taken was more than likely made to be included in a bridal trousseau, so the conveyance of good fortune is to be expected on such items given at such a milestone in a couple's life.

On the right we see a crane, which is a symbol of longevity.  More than that, because cranes mate for life they are a symbol of marital fidelity--and here the crane is shown in conjunction with bamboo. Bamboo is a symbol of resilience:  it bends but does not break.

The center shows a money pouch and Buddhist symbols of abundance along with "the cape of invisibility," a mythical garment that affords the wearer the magical ability to disappear.

The left hand image symbolizes longevity in the form of a tortoise, this one set inside a beautiful swirl of an ocean wave and accompanied by the hoju, a Buddhist pearl of wisdom.

The cloth is hand spun and hand woven cotton, the indigo dye is a deep, deep blue tone.  The length is in good, used condition with hardly any wear at all.

A cloth rich in embedded meaning this would be marvelous gift to give someone special.