A Large Indigo Dyed Boro Cotton Futonji: Basketweave Katazome

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
60 1/4" x 41", 153 cm x 104 cm

This gorgeous indigo dyed textile is a three panel futon cover that has been selectively katazome dyed on its four corners, the design being that of a woven basket.

These four resist dyed corners are of ample area and are a really attractive design element to the overall futon cover.  The cotton is hand loomed, hand spun and is exactly what you would want to see in an old, Japanese folk textile.  As this piece has been used hard over its lifetime, it has been mended, as can be seen on the accompanying detail photos.

Also, each of the three panels is seamed and stitched by hand, suggesting that this indigo dyed cotton futon cover has been assembled from re-used cloth.  

There are a few stains and small tears to the piece, but overall it is in good condition for its age and it is a very attractive textile from old Japan with some wonderful dyed design details.

Recommended.