A Very Subtle Boro Panel: Hemp Kasuri

ca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century
52" x 12", 132 cm x 30 cm

This length of deeply colored indigo dyed cloth is woven hemp kasuri or ikat fabric that was probably once part of a kimono.

During the Edo period (1603-1868) the Japanese government issued sumptuary laws which, among other things, dictated what class of people could wear what type of garment.  Most of the population was relegated to wear dark colors which is why we have so much somber hemp and cotton cloth from old Japan.  It was the most used.

This cloth is hand sewn from two pieces and shows two patches.  Some slight holes and a bit ragged .

A lovely piece of old Japan.