An Itajime Shibori Han Juban: Indigo Dyed Cotton

early to mid twentieth century
20 1/4" x 49", 51.5 cm x 124.5 cm

This is a cotton han juban or a half under-kimono which is dyed in indigo in the itajime or clamp-dyed shibori process. The dimensions noted above are: shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip.

The boldly graphic pattern is almost kaleidoscopic in its effect: the itajime design is that of asa no ha or the traditional hemp leaf motif. The indigo dye is strong and of a warm blue color and the white cotton is a lovely foil to the rich color.

The matching of the large scale hemp leaf pattern as it is stitched is fairly free so, for example, the seam running up the back of the han juban shows a clash where the patterns meet in the center.

The han juban is in good, used condition and this is a beautiful, visually exciting shibori textile.

Very recommended.