A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Many Auspicious Symbols

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
38" x 12 3/4", 96.5 cm x 32.25 cm

This is a length of hand woven indigo dyed katazome cotton, the katazome dyeing being a bit lax in that there are slight technical irregularities to the design elements.

The design shows a field of arabesque onto which is overlaid roundels containing the shochikubai motif and the tsurukame symbol.

Shochikubai is a classic, auspicious pattern composed of pine, plum and bamboo and it is often used for cloth to be included in a bridal trousseau.  The plum is the first bloom to burst forth from the winter's ice and is symbol of strength, the bamboo bends but does not break so it is a symbol of resilience, and the pine, of course conveys a wish for longevity.  Also, pine needles fall in pairs, and thus they are a motif often used at weddings.

The combination of the tortoise and the crane or tsurukame is a potent conveyance of a wish for a long life.

The cotton is nicely hand woven and the indigo dye is still strong in tone and color.

This is a length of katazome cloth loaded with powerful, auspicious symbols--enjoy it.