A Length of Kasuri Cotton: Supplementary Weft

early to mid twentieth century
62" x 12 3/4", 157.5 cm x 32.5 cm

This length of indigo dyed kasuri cotton was hand woven and its spare design is interesting for its stylized depictions of two traditional Japanese design motifs.

The width of the cloth is separated into two, evenly spaced areas, the left side showing a repeat pattern of five staggered bars arranged in a chevron: this design is that of the arrow feather or yabane, a traditional Japanese design motif.

The right hand side shows two small bars, also staggered: these bars are renditions of bamboo, and in the center of each, to suggest the knuckle of the bamboo, are two small areas of supplementary weft yarns, which also add a bit of texture.

The color of the cotton is a rich, warm indigo and the weight of cotton is fairly light.  As is the case with certain old Japanese hand woven cottons, this piece has been starched, which calls into question was it or was it not ever used.

A lovely piece of old kasuri woven cotton from Japan.