A Patched Large Scale Pattern Katazome Length: Fractured Design

early twentieth century
37 1/2" x 12 3/4", 95 cm x 32.5 cm

This length of deeply colored indigo dyed katazome cotton is so dark in tone that it reads to be almost black.

The large-scale pattern is in sharp contrast to the dark base color, the reason for this sharpness of image is the fact that this length was stencil resisted on both front and back--a techniques employed specifically to create a clearer image. Interesting, however, is that upon a closer look at the pattern you can see that it is imperfectly--and charmingly--done.

The pattern is that of stylized flowers rendered as roundels which are set against a background field of arabesques. The design is playful and animated; the length was taken from a futon cover.

A wonderful feature of this length is the large, oddly-shaped mending patch in the center of it which serves to fracture the design making for something complex and visual. 

The cotton is fairly lightweight and the length is in good, used condition. 

This is a boldly designed length of good, old katazome cotton with the added interest of that patch and its stitching.