A Shirakage Shibori Han Juban: Tatewaku and Butterflies

early to mid twentieth century
23" x 24", 58.5 cm x 61 cm

This beautiful indigo dyed cotton garment is a shirakage shibori han juban or a half under-kimono that has been dyed in one of the most prized shibori techniques called shirakage or white shadow: shirakage is a method which is prized for the high level of technical expertise needed to create the finished design.

The cotton of the garment feels hand woven and appears to be of hand woven yarns although it is not clear if this is the case.  However, the garment is completely hand stitched and the indigo most likely is botanical. The hand dyeing of this cloth shows a pattern of tatewaku or undulating lines which is sometimes referred to in the West as "rising steam." The tatewaku pattern is studded with sideways-facing butterflies that appear as beautiful, dark blue stains set in regular intervals along the length.

The bright white color and its lovely, stark contrast to the indigo dyed pattern is more striking in person than in these photos, which do not precisely show the color or the brightness.

Simply wonderful and and excellent example of shirakage shibori hand dyeing.

Recommended.