A Generous Length of Shirakage Shibori: Hemp Leaf Pattern

early twentieth century
96" x 12 3/4", 244 cm x 32.5 cm

This is a very attractive and generously sized length of indigo dyed cotton shibori which has been dyed in the shirakage method, a kind of specialized stitched shibori that yields a blue-on-white pattern. Because shirakage shibori is vat dyed and because there is so much white area on the cloth that needs to be hidden from the dye vat shirakage is known to be one of the more difficult types of shibori dyeing and one that requires great, practiced skill.

The large-scale repeat design is that of the asa no ha or hemp leaf, a traditional Japanese design and one that is often-used in endless variation of design.

This length was intended to be used to make a yukata or an unlined, casual cotton kimono.

Overall the condition is quite good however there is one small mark of discoloration in the center of the piece which is illustrated here on last detail photo.

Just beautiful.