A Boro Resist Dyed Panel from a Noren: Shop Sign

ca. early to mid twentieth century
61" x 15 1/2", 155 cm x 39.5 cm

This lovely length of indigo dyed, heavy canvas-like cotton has been very much weathered from exposure to light and the elements, which gives it its rich patina and its faded color.

This is one panel from a resist-dyed noren, a kind of curtain that is hung outside shops and restaurants, announcing the name of the establishment, and, when displayed, announcing that the establishment is open for business.

This one does not show the selvedge edges; it may be a commercially produced cotton and the long edges seem to have been cut.   

As has been noted above, the original, deep, indigo color has faded and oxidized to a soft, grey-blue tone.  The top of the piece, which would have been folded and shaded from light exposure, is a darker blue, as are the two long edges which were tucked under when folded.  Note as well a long, horizontal slit to the bottom of the cloth that has been stitched closed.

Really lovely.