A Full, Intact Small Futon Cover: Shibori Dyed for a Child

early to mid twentieth century
52" x 37", 132 cm x 94 cm

This indigo dyed shibori textile is an entire, intact futon cover--there is no stuffing--that judging by its relatively small size was meant for a child.

The large scale pattern is cheerful: it shows tie dyed flower forms against a stitched pattern of tatewaku or "rising steam."

The cotton is of good weight, a bit heavier than would have been used on a yukata or a casual, unlined summer kimono. It is fairly clear that this futon cover has been recycled from another existing cloth but the question might asked "was it a yukata?"

Note the charming patched repairs that are detailed on the accompanying photographs--these and the beautiful, clear blue color make for a delightful futon cover which comes from a former decade in Japan. 

The futon cover is still very usable as-is. Likewise it would be easy to re-use the cloth contained in it thereby carrying on a Japanese tradition of re-using and not wasting materials.

A delightful household textile with great charm and presence.