A Length of Indigo Dyed Cotton: Roundels or Medallions

late nineteenth century
35 3/4" x 12 1/4", 91 cm x 31 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed cotton katazome cotton that has greyed or oxidized over time: time has shaded the original blue tone as a very attractive dark, neutral color.

The design is a symmetrical pattern of roundels or medallions that are interspersed with foliate motifs. The center of each of the roundels seems to contain a kind of abstracted flower and the circle around it shows what appears to be either ivy or oak rendered in small dots.

The cloth is in good, used condition and shows a very nice, regular pattern that is sophisticated and balanced.