{"title":"Various Folk Textiles and Other","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"a-large-hand-painted-festival-banner-cartoon-seven-chinese-ancients","title":"A Large Hand Painted Festival Banner Cartoon: Seven Chinese Ancients","description":"\u003cp\u003ereduced from $110.00\u003cbr\u003eca. mid to late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e23\" x 50\", 58.5 cm x 127 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis wonderfully realized, hand painted, eight paneled drawing is a cartoon for a set of festival banners to be flown on ceremonial occasions. The cartoon is done with opaque watercolor on hand made paper.  In the detail photos that accompany this entry we have shown an image of actual festival banners as an example.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHaving done some research and having asked some friends in Japan, we are just a bit stumped by the image: clearly these drawings represent Chinese ancients who are dressed in historical costume.  They are most likely of the Taoist bent or they be scholars, poets or connoisseurs.  In any case, as they will be shown at festival time in Japan where good wishes and high mindedness are the order of the day, they are certainly an elevated sort, whether it be in the realm of philosophy or the arts.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNote the flowing, layered, silk robes and the accoutrements of authority that enhance the persona of each of the seven Chinese ancients.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBeautifully done. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default","offer_id":87479502,"sku":"1462","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Luohans1.jpeg?v=1571438517"},{"product_id":"a-large-19th-century-boro-paper-object-laminated-recycled-ledger-books","title":"A Large 19th Century Boro Paper Object: Laminated Recycled Ledger Books","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early to mid nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n64\" x 30\", 162.5 cm x 75.5 cm \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very curious and beautiful object which has been made from laminated, recycled ledger paper leaves. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIts original intent is not know, but it is speculated that it may have had something to do with raising silkworms for the silk spinning industry. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn old Japan, and up through the mid-twentieth century, private households would raise silkworms as a kind of cottage industry and as a way to augment their income. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt has been suggested that this wonderful thing may have originally been used in this service, perhaps as some kind of \"sling\" to hold cocoons or to feed silkworms (although silkworms are usually fed on a stiff, open holed net).\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePore over the attached photos here to see the many different pieces of paper that have been glued together to create this large sheet of stiff paper.  \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nAnd notice the remarkable and wonderful little sgraffito, the strange, smiling face which someone doodled on the paper, probably almost two hundred years ago.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nJust fantastic, unusual, and a true folk object. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":88150332,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/paperfacething1a.jpg?v=1571438519"},{"product_id":"an-unusued-yukata-bolt-wonderful-applied-labels","title":"An Unusued Yukata Bolt: Wonderful Applied Labels","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\nfolded, as shown: 13 3\/4\" x 8\", 35 cm x 20 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is the fantastic packaging more than anything else that makes this unused cotton \u003ci\u003eyukata\u003c\/i\u003e bolt wonderful.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs is very clear, this is a fairly commercial kind of \u003ci\u003eyukata\u003c\/i\u003e which is dyed using nontraditional techniques.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat is wonderful about it is the photo of the man who is modeling a \u003ci\u003eyukata\u003c\/i\u003e, which, of course, is an image of what the kimono will look like once it is cut, put together and sewn to be a \u003ci\u003eyukata,\u003c\/i\u003e or an unlined, casual kimono.  Note that the photo is hand stitched to the bolt.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs well, the two brand labels are very attractive--and to be fair, the cotton's printed pattern is quite nice.  The pattern is narrow stripes over which a mottled blue is printed, not bad at all.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Collectible, lovely, and charming.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":89629842,"sku":"","price":60.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/YukataDeadbolt1.jpg?v=1571438521"},{"product_id":"a-pair-of-small-tabi-lasts-wooden-split-toe-sock-forms","title":"A Pair of Small Tabi Lasts: Wooden Split Toe Sock Forms","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\neach: 8\" x 2 1\/2\" x 1 1\/4\", 20 cm x 6.25 cm x 3 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat a charming pair: these carved wooden forms were used in the production of traditional Japanese split-toe cotton socks called \u003ci\u003etabi.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf this pair, each of the two piece is slightly different in color; the \u003ci\u003etabi\u003c\/i\u003e last shown on the left is slightly darker in color than the one pictured on its right.  Each shows a surface that is a bit nicked and scuffed, and each of the \u003ci\u003etabi\u003c\/i\u003e last's surfaces is beautifully burnished from years--or decades--of handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a really lovely pair of old, wooden \u003ci\u003etabi\u003c\/i\u003e lasts, and certainly an item that calls up memories of old Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":90760002,"sku":"","price":150.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Lasts4Tabi1.jpg?v=1571438522"},{"product_id":"a-vintage-harite-and-shinshi-dyers-tools","title":"A Vintage Harite and Shinshi Set: Dyer's Tools","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early to mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003ci\u003eharite,\u003c\/i\u003e each: 18\" x 1\" x 1\", 46 cm x 2.5 cm x 2.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered here are dyer's tools.  The \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.johnmarshall.to\/5-EDx-HariteDirections.html\"\u003e\u003ci\u003eharite\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e is a  hinged, wooden clamp that is affixed to each end of the cloth to be dyed or dried: each \u003ci\u003eharite\u003c\/i\u003e bears a set of sharp, nail \"teeth\" that grabs the end of the cloth to hold it steady.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eShinsi\u003c\/i\u003e are very thin bamboo rods.  Each end is set with a pin.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe length of cloth is clamped with the \u003ci\u003eharite\u003c\/i\u003e and is stretched between two points.  The \u003ci\u003eshinshi\u003c\/i\u003e are then used to keep the stretched cloth from curling onto itself.  One of the pin-set ends of the bamboo rod is jabbed into the selvedge; likewise the other pin-set ends is jabbed into the other.  This is done repeatedly all the way down the length of the cloth to keep it suspended and flat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you have ever seen a full \u003ci\u003etanmono\u003c\/i\u003e or cotton or hemp kimono roll, you will have noticed that the selvedges seem stretched at regular intervals--this is the result of \u003ci\u003eshinshi\u003c\/i\u003e having been placed at these stressed areas.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA marvelous object, still very usable for weavers or dyers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":91866932,"sku":"","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Shinshi1a.jpg?v=1571438522"},{"product_id":"a-stenciled-paper-envelope-blue-grapes-and-squirrels","title":"A Stenciled Paper Envelope: Blue Grapes and Squirrels","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n14 1\/4\" x 9 1\/2\", 36 cm x 23.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an unusual paper object that has been stenciled with an equally unusual motif.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat makes the object unusual is that it is a piece of folded, stenciled paper that has been machine sewn shut, leaving a gap of 6\" or 15 cm unsewn. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stenciled motif is also unusual: it is that of squirrels and grapes.  Most likely this combination of motives is borrowed from the Chinese, and it is unusual in that it does appear from time to time in the worlds of textile design and applied arts in Japan, but its appearance is scant.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Chinese lexicon, squirrels (or \"pine mice\") are a stand-in for pine and they symbolize longevity.  Grapes and grapevines are a homophone for peach, a Taoist longevity figure.  Another reading of the squirrels and grapes symbolism is that grapes symbolize the fruits of one's sowing and are a symbol of the harvest.  Squirrels, of course, are \"harvesting\" the grapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis paper \"envelope\" shows surface abrasion, one stain and some discoloration from dirt on one of its short edges, on both sides. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":93219282,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/SquirrelsBlue1a.jpg?v=1571438522"},{"product_id":"a-stenciled-paper-envelope-red-grapes-and-squirrels","title":"A Stenciled Paper Envelope: Red Grapes and Squirrels","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n14 1\/4\" x 9 1\/2\", 36 cm x 23.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral pieces available. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an unusual paper object that has been stenciled with an equally unusual motif.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat\n makes the object unusual is that it is a piece of folded, stenciled \npaper that has been machine sewn shut, leaving a gap of 6\" or 15 cm \nunsewn. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe stenciled motif is also unusual: it is that of \nsquirrels and grapes.  Most likely this combination of motives is \nborrowed from the Chinese, and it is unusual in that it does appear from\n time to time in the worlds of textile design and applied arts in Japan,\n but its appearance is scant.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the Chinese lexicon, squirrels \n(or \"pine mice\") are a stand-in for pine and they symbolize longevity.  \nGrapes and grapevines are a homophone for peach, a Taoist longevity \nfigure.  Another reading of the squirrels and grapes symbolism is that \ngrapes symbolize the fruits of one's sowing and are a symbol of the \nharvest.  Squirrels, of course, are \"harvesting\" the grapes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \npaper \"envelope\" shows surface abrasion and some \ndiscoloration from dirt on one of its short edges, on both sides. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n \n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":93219372,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/SquirrelsRed1a.jpg?v=1571438523"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-wide-striped-cotton-handwoven","title":"A Length of Wide Striped Cotton: Handwoven","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n69\" x 13 3\/4\", 175 cm x 35 cm\u003cbr\u003e\nSeveral pieces available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a really lovely length of old, striped indigo dyed cotton which was once part of a futon cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe wide stripes are lovely and the dyes are botanical: the reddish color is made from safflower or \u003ci\u003ebenibana\u003c\/i\u003e dye and the yellow could be one of several dyestuffs used for yellow color in old Japan: \u003ci\u003ekihada\u003c\/i\u003e, a kind of tree bark, turmeric or gardenia seeds, among others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe condition of the cloth is very good; there is some patina from wear and a tiny, unnoticeable hole or two, but for its age, the condition is fine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReally lovely.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":95411102,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/YellowStripes1a.jpg?v=1571438523"},{"product_id":"a-beautiful-length-of-striped-cotton-complex","title":"A Beautiful Length of Striped Cotton: Complex","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n63\" x 13\", 160 cm x 33 cm\u003cbr\u003e\n3 pieces available\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a really gorgeous, lush and beautifully woven length of woven cotton striped fabric.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece is taken from a futon cover, and the central striped area is beautifully designed: a wide, channel of \u003ci\u003easagi\u003c\/i\u003e or pale blue cotton which is punctuated by narrower stripes of dark indigo, \u003ci\u003ebenibana\u003c\/i\u003e or safflower dyed, and two narrow stripes woven from variegated warp yarns which have been dyed in the\u003ci\u003e kasuri\u003c\/i\u003e technique.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fantastically handsome length of old, hand woven Japanese cotton.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":96488522,"sku":"","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/KasuriStripes1a.jpg?v=1571438523"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-depiction-of-swallows-1-hand-painted","title":"A 19th Century Depiction of Swallows #1: Hand Painted","description":"\u003cp\u003elate nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n9 1\/2\" x 13\", 24 cm x 33 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is page of beautifully rendered brushed ink studies of the Japanese swallow, or \u003ci\u003etsubame.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ci\u003etsubame\u003c\/i\u003e is a design motif that appears fairly regularly in Japan; it is a beautiful and lyrical bird that is a symbol of spring--they are yearly migrants to Japan, arriving during this season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e This deft rendering shows seven swallows seen from different points of view and assuming different positions of flight.  The casual, unarranged positioning of these birds is just lovely, and shows this drawing to be the study it is.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust beautiful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":99560752,"sku":"","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Golondrinas1.jpg?v=1571438524"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-depiction-of-swallows-2-hand-painted","title":"A 19th Century Depiction of Swallows #2: Hand Painted","description":"\u003cdiv\u003elate nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n9 1\/2\" x 13\", 24 cm x 33 cm\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\nThis is page of beautifully rendered brushed ink studies of the Japanese swallow, or \u003ci\u003etsubame.\u003c\/i\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThe \u003ci\u003etsubame\u003c\/i\u003e\n is a design motif that appears fairly regularly in Japan; it is a \nbeautiful and lyrical bird that is a symbol of spring--they are yearly \nmigrants to Japan, arriving during this season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e This deft rendering shows seven red-throated swallows seen from different points of view and assuming different positions of flight.  The casual, unarranged positioning of these birds is just lovely, and shows this drawing to be the study it is.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\nJust beautiful. \u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":99560932,"sku":"","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Golondrinas2.jpg?v=1571438524"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-depiction-of-swallows-3-hand-painted","title":"A 19th Century Depiction of Swallows #3: Hand Painted","description":"\u003cp\u003elate nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n9 1\/2\" x 13\", 24 cm x 33 cm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is page showing a pair of  beautifully rendered brushed ink Japanese swallows, or \u003ci\u003etsubame \u003c\/i\u003eflying near a willow tree.\u003ci\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003ci\u003etsubame\u003c\/i\u003e\n is a design motif that appears fairly regularly in Japan; it is a \nbeautiful and lyrical bird that is a symbol of spring--they are yearly \nmigrants to Japan, arriving during this season.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e This deft rendering shows two red throated swallows against a background suggestive of a budding weeping willow--just gorgeous.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":99561002,"sku":"","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Golondrinas3.jpg?v=1571438524"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-beautiful-woven-striped-cotton-rich-colors","title":"A Length of Beautiful Woven Striped Cotton: Rich Colors","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n67\" x 12 1\/2\", 170 cm x 32 cm\u003cbr\u003e\n3 pieces available\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThis is a really gorgeous, beautifully woven length of woven cotton striped fabric.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThis piece is taken from a futon cover, and on the back side of the piece are subtle mending patches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThe striped design is lovely and simple: there are three, vertically placed columns of stripes that are woven from muted blue, green and mustard colors--the surface of this cotton cloth shows a patina from age and from wear.  There may be a tiny hole or two to any of the lengths offered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eA very handsome length of old, hand woven Japanese cotton.\u003c\/p\u003e\nRecommended.\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":101341672,"sku":"","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/TriadStripe1a.jpg?v=1571438525"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-19th-century-silk-safflower-and-indigo-dyes","title":"A Length of 19th Century Silk: Safflower and Indigo Dyes","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n29\" x 7\", 73.5 cm x 17.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis length of old silk is composed of three separate pieces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePredominate is the long piece of flyaway weight silk which has been dyed in safflower or \u003ci\u003ebenibana\u003c\/i\u003e, which produces a rich, orange color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt top are two pieces of stencil resist dyed silks which have been dyed in indigo.  The bottom of the two indigo pieces shows an over all repeat of flowers; the top piece shows butterflies amid flowers, the lyrical, swooping lines trace the meandering trail as the butterfly goes from flower to flower.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eProbably taken from a \u003ci\u003eyose juban \u003c\/i\u003eor a pieced silk under-kimono.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":114718212,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/OrangeItajimeBlue2.jpg?v=1571438528"},{"product_id":"a-hand-braided-and-woven-rustic-rain-cape-mino","title":"A Woven,Twined and Plaited Rain Cape: Mino","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n46\" x 22\" x 6\", 117 cm x 56.5 cm x 15 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis rustic and shaggy hand woven bast fiber garment is called a \u003ci\u003emino\u003c\/i\u003e--it is a rain cape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMore than likely you have seen characters in old wood block prints wearing such a thing, or perhaps you have seen one on an actor in a Japanese film.  This \u003ci\u003emino\u003c\/i\u003e is a traditional \"garment\" which was worn as a rain coat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one, like most, is woven from what appears to be bast fibers and maybe some rice straw: the hairy fibers seem to be some kind of inner bark fiber, perhaps linden.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn any case, this heavy, thick, cape was strapped onto the back of the wearer, the effect would be similar to the protection a thatched roof provides a building.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn deeply rural Japan this kind of hand woven and plaited rain cape was worn well into the mid-twentieth century; self-sufficient country folk were adept at weaving back pads, rain capes, rustic work baskets, rope, sandals and the like out of local grasses, straw and tree bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis piece is in fairly good condition; please know that the fibers are a bit dry and tend to shed a bit during transportation and handling.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA beautiful piece with lovely dimension and texture, this is a strong reminder of life in the old Japanese countryside, where this kind of garment was commonplace and hand made in all homes. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nVery interesting and beautiful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":117742172,"sku":"","price":265.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Mino1.jpg?v=1571438528"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-horizontally-striped-cotton-subtle-colors","title":"A Length of Horizontally Striped Cotton: Subtle Colors","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n68\" x 13\", 173 cm x 33 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeautiful in its subtlety and straightforwardness, this is a length of hand loomed, indigo dyed cotton that shows a repeat based on a group of three horizontal bars which moves along the length of the cloth in regular intervals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe woven striped pattern is low-contrast: the stripes are a kind of dull grey against the soft, dark indigo.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuted, hand loomed and lovely.  One small hole, and in otherwise very good, used condition.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":121193762,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/HorizontalStripes1a.jpg?v=1571438529"},{"product_id":"a-wonderful-early-19th-century-shrine-banner-hand-spun-cotton-and-hand-painted-kanji","title":"A Wonderful Early 19th Century Shrine Banner: Hand Spun Cotton and Hand Painted Kanji","description":"\u003cp\u003edated 1845\u003cbr\u003e\n70\" x 13 1\/4\", 178 cm x 33.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis old textile which is dated to 1845 is wonderful from many different perspectives, from its threads upward to its finished state.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a Shinto shrine banner that is hand stitched from extremely good cotton that is both hand spun and hand woven.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cotton is loaded with what the Japanese refer to as \u003ci\u003eito aji \u003c\/i\u003eor thread taste or flavor: the gauzy hand of the cotton has to do with the softly spun cotton yarns that were beautifully hand woven--which, too, was also done with a soft hand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis banner would have been attached to a vertical bamboo pole and would have been exhibited outside a shrine; banners like this commemorate a special day and they often honor donations and endowments from a patron.  The \u003ci\u003ekanji\u003c\/i\u003e or Chinese characters are hand drawn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePay special attention to the absolutely marvelous tabs which would have attached this banner to its staff: the are made of beautifully hand colored and hand stenciled cloth, and you can see a design of blue plum blossoms against a striated, nut brown background.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor its age--over 160 years old--this banner is in remarkably good condition as can be seen in the photos here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery recommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":127065152,"sku":"","price":200.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Early19thCShrine1.jpg?v=1571438530"},{"product_id":"a-long-piece-of-old-striped-cotton-lovely-patina","title":"A Long Piece of Old Striped Cotton: Lovely Patina","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n85\" x 14\", 216 cm x 35.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a very long piece of beautifully and softly faded indigo dyed cotton--in this case a subtle and beautiful woven stripe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe colors are gradient blues that have softened beautifully with time and with wear, the cotton is pliable and hand woven.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExtremely handsome and in good condition, this length of old cotton is taken from a futon cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSubtle and beautiful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":127074362,"sku":"","price":65.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/PatinaVickyStripe1a.jpg?v=1571438530"},{"product_id":"a-woven-straw-back-pad-black-cotton-details","title":"A Woven Straw Back Pad: Black Cotton Details","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n44\" x 16\", 111.5 cm x 40.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThe gently woven and beautifully formed object is a back pad which \nwas used by people in old Japan when carrying burden.  It is referred to\n as \u003ci\u003ebandori\u003c\/i\u003e or \u003ci\u003eseate.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eBandori \u003c\/i\u003eor \u003ci\u003eseate\u003c\/i\u003e served an important purpose by protecting \nthe body from the cuts and abrasions that would have been received from a\n heavy load if the body were not protected.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eBeautifully woven and braided, it seems that this back\u003ci\u003e pad\u003c\/i\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e was hand made primarily from rice straw; it is bordered with a fringe of commercially produced cotton pieces, some of which are missing. \u003cbr\u003e\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eLook carefully at the accompanying photos: the expert way that this \nwas woven makes it clear that the maker has made many in their \nlifetime.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThis kind of utilitarian object was in constant demand and \nwas extremely important to the Japanese peasant, who was quite \nconversant in the weaving of raw fibers such as bast or rice straw.  \nBaskets, sandals and rope, to name a few, were some of the everyday \nitems that were hand made on a constant basis in the home by people in \nold Japan.  Twining and forming fiber into usable shapes was common and \nnecessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e A lovely, back pad with good color and nice patina.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eRecommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":127074872,"sku":"","price":125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/SeateBlackCotton1.jpg?v=1571438531"},{"product_id":"a-ball-of-hand-made-cotton-rope-rustic-himo","title":"A Ball of Hand Made Cotton Rope: Rustic Himo","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\nas shown: 6\", 15 cm in diameter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis ball of \u003ci\u003eboro\u003c\/i\u003e rope is twisted and tied from innumerable scraps of cotton cloth--and the rope was used hard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine having old, ragged clothing and bedding, or buying rags from a rag merchant; this is the source of this hand made rope which was used for everyday tasks in old Japan, from tying goods for hauling to any number of other jobs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rope was used hard as can be seen and it is fascinating to look at the variety of commercially produced and hand loomed cottons that comprise it--and there are a few scraps of knitted cotton as well.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Wonderful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":144350302,"sku":"","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/ColoredHimo1.jpg?v=1571438531"},{"product_id":"a-three-panel-segment-of-cotton-kaya-mosquito-netting-with-benibana-corner","title":"A Three Panel Segment of Cotton Kaya: Mosquito Netting with Benibana Corner","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n76\" x 36\", 193 cm x 91.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis beautifully blue\/green\/ green blue cotton mesh cloth is a segment from a \u003ci\u003ekaya\u003c\/i\u003e, or a mosquito netting tent, \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/threads.srithreads.com\/2009\/06\/an-intact-kaya-a-tent-of-hemp-fiber-mosquito-netting\/\"\u003elike the one shown here.\u003c\/a\u003e  \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nLaxly woven hemp and cotton were used as screening against the very plentiful mosquitoes which are especially pesky during Japan's drenchingly humid, furnace-like summers.  In winter, these \u003ci\u003ekaya\u003c\/i\u003e were used as insulation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese three panels are still hand stitched together and there are three wonderful details.  First, the \u003ci\u003ebenibana \u003c\/i\u003eor safflower dyed cotton corner piece, second, the hand written and faded name tag, and third, the little eddies of mending that can be seen in the accompanying photos.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe condition, overall, is good--as is the color.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA really charming old cloth, and one that would have been very present in the life of a family in old Japan.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":144350942,"sku":"","price":90.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Menkaya3.jpg?v=1571438531"},{"product_id":"a-cypress-wood-box-of-tatami-heri-pieces-short-rolls-of-used-hemp-cloth","title":"A Cypress Wood Box of Tatami Heri Pieces: Short Rolls of Used Hemp Cloth","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\nbox size: 8 1\/4\" x 9\" x 2\", 21 cm x 23 cm x 5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis lovely assortment of old, very used short rolls of hemp cloth is placed in a fragrant \u003ci\u003ehinok\u003c\/i\u003ei or cypress wood box.  The eight rolls are pieces of tatami \u003ci\u003eheri\u003c\/i\u003e, or the cloth edging of tatami mats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven though this selection of indigo dyed hemp cloth is humble and worn, it looks like a delicacy when presented in such a refined manner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e A gorgeous curiosity.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":144351232,"sku":"","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/WagashiBako1.jpg?v=1571438532"},{"product_id":"a-handwoven-length-of-cotton-stripes-boldly-graphic","title":"A Handwoven Length of Cotton Stripes: Boldly Graphic","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n 62\" x 14\", 157.5 cm x 35.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat an unusually--and boldly graphic--length of hand loomed cotton cloth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cloth shows a central, wide, bold black stripe with two black stripes of half this width residing close to the selvedge edges.  Between the black stripes is a field of very subtle warm and cool blue tone-on-tone stripes, the effect of using a striped warp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe are showing what would have been the \"wrong\" side of this cloth, therefore its color is still quite true to what it would have looked like when it was woven about 100 years ago.  The proper \"right\" side of this cloth is quite faded and of a very different character to what we are picturing here.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eReally great.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":146009632,"sku":"","price":55.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/BlackStripe1.jpg?v=1571438532"},{"product_id":"a-ball-of-rustic-himo-recycled-cotton-rope","title":"A Lage Ball of Rustic Himo: Unruly Recycled Cotton Rope","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\ndiameter: 10\", 25.5 cm \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThis very large and unruly ball of \u003ci\u003eboro\u003c\/i\u003e rope is twisted and tied from innumerable scraps of cotton cloth--and the rope was used hard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eImagine having old, ragged clothing and bedding, or buying rags from a\n rag merchant; this is the source of this hand made rope which was used \nfor everyday tasks in old Japan, from tying goods for hauling to any \nnumber of other jobs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eThe rope was used hard as can be seen best when unwound: some of the length that is contained in the center of the ball is coming undone, the two twined pieces of cloth have been untwined.  Still, it is fascinating to look \nat the variety of commercially produced and hand loomed cottons that \ncomprise it--and there are a few scraps of knitted cotton as well.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n Wonderful.\u003c\/div\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":147134112,"sku":"","price":140.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/RagBall1.jpg?v=1571438532"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-kuzu-and-cotton-dochugi-traveling-coat","title":"An Elegant and Beautiful 19th Century Samurai Dochugi: Traveling Coat","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n32\" x 50\", 81 cm x 127 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis beautifully tailored, traditionally styled overcoat for Japan's elite class is hand woven from what is said to be a combination of kudzu fiber and cotton.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is not uncommon for these traveling coats to be woven from kudzu or \u003ci\u003ekuzu \u003c\/i\u003eas this was a fiber often worn by the samurai class.  It is beautifully glossy, takes dye well, keeps a fine crease, is lightweight, breathes well in summer, dries quickly after rain, and, ultimately, is a very elegant cloth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one is in very good condition and its cloth feels more like cotton than the bast fiber \u003ci\u003ekuzufu\u003c\/i\u003e or kudzu cloth: the \u003ci\u003ehimo\u003c\/i\u003e or braided ties are all intact as are the horn fixtures used as clasps.  The color is fine, there are just a few, faint stains (see accompanying photographs) and very slight and unnoticeable mending.  The collar area shows just a bit of loss and wear.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eQuite curious are the two, vertical slits on the proper front, left and the proper back, left.  As this was once owned by a samurai, it is through these slits that he placed his swords, and this detail to this wonderful \u003ci\u003edochugi\u003c\/i\u003e makes it a more interesting garment than it already is.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA really fine and really lovely old garment--and wearable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeautiful and very recommended.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":147202262,"sku":"","price":375.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Dochyugi1.jpg?v=1571438532"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-varied-stripes-intricate-pairings","title":"A Length of Varied Stripes: Intricate Pairings","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n62\" x 12 3\/4\", 157.5 cm x 32.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a handsome length of cloth: there is good design, good coloration, and it is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe design is two, parallel placed stripes, each one very wide and each one containing a subset of variations on the stripe motif, which, when see as a whole, read as one, wide stripe.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is one, lentil sized hole, but otherwise this good looking length of cotton is in fine condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLovely.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":147202512,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/GoodWideKasuriStripe1a.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"a-fragrant-cedar-box-of-tatami-heri-hemp-tatami-edging","title":"A Fragrant Cedar Box of Tatami Heri: Hemp Tatami Edging","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\nbox size: 8 1\/4\" x 9\" x 2\", 21 cm x 23 cm x 5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis lovely assortment of  ten old, very used short rolls of hemp cloth is placed in a fragrant \u003ci\u003ehinok\u003c\/i\u003ei or cypress wood box.  The rolls are pieces of tatami \u003ci\u003eheri\u003c\/i\u003e, or the cloth edging of tatami mats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven though this selection of indigo dyed hemp cloth is humble and \nworn, it looks like a delicacy when presented in such a refined manner.\u003c\/p\u003e\n A gorgeous curiosity. \n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":147202882,"sku":"","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/HeriBis1.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"a-ball-of-boro-himo-rustic-hand-twisted-rope","title":"A Ball of Boro Himo: Rustic Hand Twisted Rope","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis ball of \u003ci\u003eboro\u003c\/i\u003e rope is twisted and tied from innumerable scraps of cotton cloth--and the rope was used hard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eImagine having old, ragged clothing and bedding, or buying rags from a\n rag merchant; this is the source of this hand made rope which was used \nfor everyday tasks in old Japan, from tying goods for hauling to any \nnumber of other jobs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe rope was used hard as can be seen and it is fascinating to look \nat the variety of commercially produced and hand loomed cottons that \ncomprise it--and there are a few scraps of knitted cotton as well.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Wonderful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":147203972,"sku":"","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/TwinedHimoRustic1.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"an-absolutely-beautiful-length-of-hand-loomed-cotton-cool-plaid","title":"An Absolutely Beautiful Length of Hand Loomed Cotton: Cool Plaid","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n60 1\/2\" x 13 1\/2\", 153.5 cm x 34 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a length of very rich and subtle indigo dyed cotton, the pattern being a soft, complex plaid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs we often mention on this site, old textiles should show \u003ci\u003eito aji \u003c\/i\u003eor thread taste, usually due to the individual cotton threads being hand spun, as seems to be the case in this gorgeous length.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe color is warm and conjurs up thoughts of old Japan.  There are three, lentil-sized holes along the length, otherwise this handloomed piece of cotton is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBeautiful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":160401522,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/GreatPlaid1a.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"a-set-of-five-hand-painted-porcelain-sake-cups-radiating-circles","title":"A Set of Five Hand Painted Porcelain Sake Cups: Radiating Circles","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\neach: 2\" high x 3 1\/4\" diameter, 5 cm high x 8 cm diameter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a set of five beautifully hand painted porcelain sake cups which were made in Kyoto in the late nineteenth to early twentieth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth inside and out are decorated with amazingly thin and precise rings of parallel lines: imagine the skill necessary to create such fine decoration on concave and convex surfaces, inside and out.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach of these cups is intact; there are no chips or abrasion, and each is bright and clear in color.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":161405462,"sku":"","price":145.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/FiveCups1.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"a-quite-large-boro-temari-deceptively-damaged","title":"A Quite Large Boro Temari: Hidden Boro","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n4 1\/2\", 11.5 cm, diameter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTemari\u003c\/em\u003e, literally “hand ball,” are gifts made for children. \u003ci\u003eTemari \u003c\/i\u003ewere originally made from left over yarn or string, both cotton and silk floss were used for the external decoration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA ball was created from wound threads.  Sometimes a written wish for the\n child was placed at the center of the ball, or other times some rice \ngrains or a bell were the center of the ball, placed there to create a \nrattling or jingling noise, depending.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis oversized temari--imagine the size of a grapefruit--is made of leftover cotton yarns and is rich in color and pattern.  It does not have any rice grains inside, so it does not make noises.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhen sitting on a surface, it is not at all clear that this ball has received some damage as the area of loss can be put face-down on a surface.  Most likely the damage is the result of fire, since the white, inner cotton yarns show some evidence of being burnt.  The area of loss is about 3\" x 2\", 7.5 x 5 cm in size.  Under the white, cotton inner yarns shows some of the core of the ball which seems to be cotton floss.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\nThe outer, decorative cotton yarns are the colors of rust, pale indigo and deep green; there is all-over discoloration to the yarns, probably from exposure over the decades.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor all of its apparent deficits, this is a really wonderful, old \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e--and one that hides its flaws very well.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":161405672,"sku":"","price":135.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/BoroTemari1.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-handsome-hand-loomed-plaid-cotton-indigos","title":"A Length of Handsome Hand Loomed Plaid Cotton: Indigos","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n64\" x 13\", 162.5 cm x 33 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a length of hand loomed, indigo dyed cotton that shows a bold and graphic plaid consisting of intersecting blocks of light and dark indigo yarns.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe length is in very good condition for its age, is handsome in appearance, and is a real reminder of old Japan.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":166888722,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/BasicPlaid1a.jpg?v=1571438533"},{"product_id":"a-remarable-paper-kimono-hingata-or-practice-kimono","title":"A Remarkable Paper Kimono: Hingata or Practice Kimono","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n27\" x 24 1\/2\", 68.5 cm x 62 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis hand stiched \u003ci\u003ehinagata\u003c\/i\u003e made from recycled ledger paper is as beautiful as it is rare.   \u003ci\u003eHinagata\u003c\/i\u003e are miniature garments which were stitched in order to learn how to sew full size clothing; they are almost always sewn from cloth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis one, however, is stitched from paper, and it appears that paper leaves with their red stamps from old ledger books were used in place of cloth in order to learn to properly stitch a kimono.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e This is just remarkable; it is a scaled down kimono.  In its present condition you could say that it is the size of a small child's, but most likely it is this small size for ease of practice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNotice the red \"50\" written on the back of the \u003ci\u003ehinagata\u003c\/i\u003e: this gives us a clue to its age.  Arabic numbers were new to Japan in the Meiji era (1868-1912) and started being used around that time, so whenever this \"50\" was drawn on the paper--when the paper was still in a book or after the hinagata was created (which is more likely)--we know it was certainly done at the end of the 19th century or the beginning of the 20th.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote the profusion of small holes throughout the piece.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rare and special treasure from old Japan.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":168559502,"sku":"","price":285.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/PaperHinagata1.jpg?v=1571438534"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-temari-a-gift-ball","title":"A 19th Century Cotton and Silk FlossTemari: A Gift Ball","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\n2 1\/2\", 6.5 cm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTemari\u003c\/em\u003e, literally “hand ball,” are gifts made for children. \u003ci\u003eTemari \u003c\/i\u003ewere originally made from left over yarn or string, both cotton and silk floss were used for the external decoration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA ball was created from wound threads.  Sometimes a written wish for the\n child was placed at the center of the ball, or other times some rice \ngrains or a bell were the center of the ball, placed there to create a \nrattling or jingling noise, depending, however this temari does not rattle.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is an old \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e, and old \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e are very difficult to find these days.  This one is made from a core of wound cotton yarns.  The surface is an intricate and beautiful lacing of geometric forms done in botanically dyed silk floss, the floss being a bit worn from age and use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA marvelous old \u003ci\u003etemari,\u003c\/i\u003e something extremely hard to find and very collectible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery recommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":171819542,"sku":"","price":165.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/EdoTemari5.jpg?v=1571438534"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-temari-a-gift-ball-with-a-secret-sound","title":"A 19th Century Temari: A Gift Ball with a Rice Grain Rattle Center","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid nineteenth century \u003cbr\u003e\n3 1\/4\", 8 cm, diameter\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a spectacular, old\u003ci\u003e temari\u003c\/i\u003e and one that should be carefully considered.\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eTemari\u003c\/em\u003e, literally “hand ball,” are gifts made for children. \u003ci\u003eTemari \u003c\/i\u003ewere originally made from left over yarn or string, both cotton and silk floss were used for the external decoration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eA ball was created from wound threads.  Sometimes a written wish for the\n child was placed at the center of the ball, or other times some rice \ngrains or a bell were the center of the ball, placed there to create a \nrattling or jingling noise.  This \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e, in fact, does have a core that is filled with rice grains, and shaking it produces a very lovely, dull rattling sound.  Just lovely, and just what you would like to see in an old \u003ci\u003etemari.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eIt is an old \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e, and old \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e\n are very difficult to find these days.  This one is made from wound cotton yarns.  The surface is an intricate and beautiful lacing \nof geometric and pictorial forms done in what appear to be botanically dyed silk floss, the floss being a\n bit worn from age and use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eShown on the surface of this \u003ci\u003etemari\u003c\/i\u003e are beautifully hand stitched images: the folding fan, a spray of irises, the auspicious\u003ci\u003e tae\u003c\/i\u003e or sea bream fish, plum or cherry blossoms and pine needles, a hand fan, a bunch of flowers--all stitched in pinks, blues, greens and light purples.\u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eA feast for eyes.\u003cbr\u003e\n  \u003c\/p\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003eA marvelous old \u003ci\u003etemari,\u003c\/i\u003e something extremely hard to find and very collectible.\u003c\/p\u003e\nVery recommended.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":171819742,"sku":"","price":225.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/EdoTemari6.jpg?v=1571438534"},{"product_id":"a-meiji-era-book-of-customs-a-handbook-for-women","title":"A Meiji Era Book of Customs: A Handbook for Women","description":"\u003cp\u003edated Meiji 28 or 1895\u003cbr\u003e\n11\" x 7 1\/2\", 28 cm x 19 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an interesting artifact from old Japan, a rather thick book, 53 pages in all, dated to the Meiji era (1868-1912) and focusing on the customs of women.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThroughout the book are illustrations and pages of text: the illustrations show images of women getting their hair dressed, of weaving and dyeing, depictions of hairstyles, hair ornaments, hats and kimono, among others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fascinating glimpse into another time, this hand book is well-worn but still very intact, the pages, of course, yellowed from age, and the illustrations still very crisp, clear and informative.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWonderful.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":171820382,"sku":"","price":165.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/HonNihon1j.jpg?v=1571438534"},{"product_id":"a-length-of-okinawan-bashofu-warp-ikat-and-banana-fiber","title":"A Length of Okinawan Bashofu: Warp Ikat and Banana Fiber","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n41 1\/2\" x 13\"\u0026lt; 105.5 cm x 33 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eBashofu\u003c\/em\u003e, or cloth woven from the fibers obtained from the leaf stems of the “thread banana” plant (\u003cem\u003eito basho\u003c\/em\u003e) is synonymous with the Okinawan Islands where it was produced for at least 500 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFrom the essay, “\u003cem\u003eBashofu\u003c\/em\u003e, The Mingei Movement, and the Creation of a New Okinawa” by Amanda Mayer Stinchecum published in the exhibition catalog “\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.amazon.com\/Material-Choices-Refashioning-Pacific-Textile\/dp\/0974872989\/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8\u0026amp;qid=1323869963\u0026amp;sr=8-1\"\u003eMaterial Choices: Refashioning Bast and Leaf Fibers in Asia and the Pacific\u003c\/a\u003e“:\n“The first written evidence of \u003cem\u003ebashofu\u003c\/em\u003e in the Ryukyu Islands\n appears in an eyewitness account, dated 1546, reported by Pak Son and \neleven other shipwrecked Koreans from Cheju Island.  Reaching Ryukyu in \n1542, they returned to Korean four years later.  Their report includes \ndescriptions of clothing, agriculture, and the cultivation of banana \nplants for making cloth:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eThe larger trees are the size of a house pillar.  These are \nharvested, and the outermost skin stripped off. The sheaths inside are \nsorted into three grades.  The fineness or coarseness of the finished \ncloth depends on whether the fiber is taken from the outer or inner \nlayers.  The innermost layer yields the thinnest and most lustrous \nfiber, and the color is as pure as snow.  It is incomparable.  Women’s \nclothing of high quality is made from this.\u003c\/em\u003e (ikeya et al. 2005, 1:121)”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eBashofu\u003c\/em\u003e is still very much appreciated all over the globe for \nits beauty and its depth of character.  It is one of Japan’s most \nprecious and esteemed textiles–it is difficult to convey the high \nadmiration the Japanese hold for \u003cem\u003ebashofu\u003c\/em\u003e.  Rare and  historical examples are often prohibitively expensive–should they be brought to market–which is rare.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis good sized length is in unusually fine condition.  It shows a simple and very attractive warp ikat, the result being a field of short, gentle, vertical lines: really elegant.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery recommended.  \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":171824932,"sku":"","price":235.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/OkinawanBashofu1a.jpg?v=1571438535"},{"product_id":"a-folk-carving-from-tohoku-otaka-popo","title":"A Folk Carving from Tohoku: Otaka Poppo","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e 4 3\/8\" x 2\" x 2\", 10.25 cm x 5 cm x 5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis marvelous, small wood carving of a stylized hawk is referred to as \u003ci\u003eotaka poppo\u003c\/i\u003e and is of a category of carving called \u003ci\u003esasano ningyo\u003c\/i\u003e, a reference to the place where this was carved, Sasano village which is located in present day Yamagata prefecture.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAccording the exhibition catalog, \u003ci\u003eMingei\u003c\/i\u003e, from the Brooklyn Museum's 1985 exhibition, \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eSasano ningyo are engi toys, engi means something like \"inviting good luck and avoiding bad luck.\"  In the popular beliefs of the Edo Period, certain days, numerals, directions, and events had to do with engi and were met with prayers and exorcism.  Many types of Japanese folk toys, particularly those purchased at temple or shrine festivals, originated as engi toys.  During the Edo Period, the daimyo (feudal lord) of Uzen Province, Uesugi Yozan, encouraged the farmers in his fief to engage in cottage industries in order to supplement their meager income.  Woodcarving was already a popular pastime for the long winter evenings in snow-covered Tohoku (northeastern Japan). Thus the farmers in Sasano Village came to specialize in this type of carved wood folk toy.  The wing and tail feathers of their hawks and roosters are pared into thin curlicues with a few deft strokes of a heavy kife.  This techinique is derived from one used by the Ainu aborigines on Hokkaido to produce wood ritual implements with long, curling shavings attached.  The curling streamers on the Ainu ceremonial imlements in turn relate to the gohei, sacred white paper streamers, used to mark off a sacred site in Shinto, the indigenous religion of Japan.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis marvelous little carving is imbued with intended supernatural powers.  Its spare, planar form calls to mind Modernist sculpture and looking at this we cannot help but think of early Cubist assemblages by Braque or Picasso, or of the sophisticatedly beautiful work of Brancusi.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":174398972,"sku":"","price":340.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/OtakaPoPo1.jpg?v=1571438535"},{"product_id":"a-19th-century-book-of-hand-painted-illustrations-birds-landscapes-people","title":"A 19th Century Book of Hand Painted Illustrations: Birds, Landscapes, People","description":"\u003cp\u003elate nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n9 1\/2\" x 6 1\/2\", 23 cm x 16.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven though this is referred to as a book and is very simply bound and has a front and back cover of paper the same weight as the leaves inside, in fact this is really more a collection of drawings of different sizes and on different weights of paper which have been collected and bound together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are twenty leaves of medium weight paper which are interspersed with many additional sheets of tissue-weight paper, each of which bears a hand drawn sumi design or drawing, each of which being very assured in its execution.  The images were drawn by an artist working in Kyoto.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe images which can be seen are varied: there are many landscapes, some renderings of frolicking birds, a stunning crane and tiger, a rendition of ikebana, rushing streams, plum branches, views of rustic landscapes with peasants working, Chinese-style sage holding the peach of immortality: this book is crammed with sketches of very good quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA treat of enormous delight, this book creates a fascinating world of traditional Japanese images and is a joy to pore through and study.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery recommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":174399052,"sku":"","price":175.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/PaintingHon1.jpg?v=1571438535"},{"product_id":"a-deeply-colored-plaid-length-rich-tones","title":"A Deeply Colored Plaid Length: Rich Tones","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e57\" x 14\", 144.5 cm x 35.5 cm\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an unusual, boldly colored indigo dyed cotton length: it is a\n very graphic plaid of light blue, dark blue and rust colored cottons, \nvery beautifully arranged and balanced.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hand loomed cotton is in very good condition and seems to have \nbeen lightly used, if it has been.  Most likely this panel was taken \nfrom a large piece, presumably a futon cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\nA beautiful old Japanese cloth with a contemporary feel.\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":178699502,"sku":"","price":70.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/DeepChecks1a.jpg?v=1571438535"},{"product_id":"a-lined-cotton-tube-two-drawstrings-and-edo-komon","title":"A Lined Cotton Tube: Two Drawstrings and Edo Komon","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n9 1\/2\" x 7\", 24 cm x 18 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eGod only knows what was the original use for this tube of piece cottons: the drawstings at either end create the mystery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e Aside from the mysterious, intended function of this piece, it is interesting for its nice little chunk of \u003ci\u003eEdo komon\u003c\/i\u003e cotton, \u003ci\u003eEdo komon\u003c\/i\u003e being a small figured \u003ci\u003ekatazome\u003c\/i\u003e dyed (usually) cloth that was popular during the late Edo period (ca. 1800-1868) and one that is quite collectible for its beauty and for all the work that went into cutting the stencil used to dye the piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNote some surface abrasion and a nice sized nick in the cloth.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":178700202,"sku":"","price":20.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/UnknownThing1.jpg?v=1571438535"},{"product_id":"a-pair-of-19th-century-juban-sleeve-linings-bright-yellow-cotton","title":"A Pair of 19th Century Juban Sleeve Linings: Bright Yellow Cotton","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late nineteenth century\u003cbr\u003e\neach: 41 1\/2\" x 14 1\/2\", 105.5 cm x 37 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eShown here are two, separate sleeve linings which were taken from a padded\u003ci\u003e juban\u003c\/i\u003e, or an under kimono that is composed of pieces of silk and cotton fabrics.  The two pieces have been configured as can be seen on the accompanying photographs; the dimensions listed above represent just one of the two pieces, each of which is the same size.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe base cloth is cotton which has been dyed in a natural yellow dyestuff, presumably turmeric.  The \u003ci\u003easagi\u003c\/i\u003e or pale blue cloth is \u003ci\u003ekatazome\u003c\/i\u003e dyed \u003ci\u003etsumugi \u003c\/i\u003eor hand spun silk on top of which is stitched a dark colored silk fragment  also dyed in indigo using the \u003ci\u003ekatazome\u003c\/i\u003e method and which shows a complex pattern of cherry blossoms and hemp leaves.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJust lovely, and recommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":178700432,"sku":"","price":85.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/YellowSleeves1.jpg?v=1571438535"},{"product_id":"a-heavily-stitched-zokin-plaid-and-layered","title":"A Heavily Stitched Zokin: Plaid and Layered","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n7\" x 11 1\/2\", 18 cm x 29 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003eThis is a very handsome \u003ci\u003eboro\u003c\/i\u003e \u003ci\u003ezokin \u003c\/i\u003ewhich is sewn from recycled cotton cloth probably about four layers in all.  The \u003ci\u003esashiko\u003c\/i\u003e stitching, which covers the entire front and back surface of the \u003ci\u003ezokin\u003c\/i\u003e, is beautifully executed and adds charm to this otherwise utilitarian cloth. \u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n  \u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003eZokin\u003c\/i\u003e are traditional Japanese dustrags which are almost always made from layered and \u003ci\u003esashiko\u003c\/i\u003e stitched scraps of cloth.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n  A very good looking \u003ci\u003ezokin\u003c\/i\u003e with lovely stitching.\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":181690702,"sku":"","price":18.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/PalerTwoToneZokin1.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-folio-of-textile-designs-from-kyoto-meiji-era","title":"A Folio of 30 Textile Designs from Kyoto: Meiji Era","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n15 3\/4\" x 11\", 40 cm x 28 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \"booklet\" is composed of thirty leaves of tissue weight paper that have been bound together by two simple bindings on one of the short ends of the group of paper.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis assortment of thirty fabulous hand drawn and hand colored designs comes from a textile design studio in Kyoto, and is said to date to the Meiji Era (1868-1912).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEach page shows an individual repeat design rendered in a rust\/orange watercolor pigment, quite diluted with water.  The images are delicate and precise.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBut the images are beautiful, varied and expertly rendered.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSome of the images are what can be called traditional Japanese motifs and many are based in botanical designs shown in circular format, but other are based on grids and diagonals and call to mind the work of the early Modernist textile designs of the Wiener Werkstatte, a group who looked toward Japan for design inspiration and who are well known to have collected katagami or Japanese textile stencils.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis booklet is a treasure trove for the designer, or for the aficionado of Japanese textile design.  As the sampling of designs seen on the accompanying photos indicates, there are remarkable images to appreciate in this collection of thirty.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVery much recommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":181693142,"sku":"","price":295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/Folio1.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-hand-carved-korean-spool-1-vintage","title":"A Hand Carved Korean Spool #1: Vintage","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n2 1\/2\" x 5 3\/4\", 6.5 cm x 14.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small, hand carved oblong made from a lightweight wood which is reminiscent of kiri or paulowina wood.  It seems to have been coated with a coat of red-toned lacquer which has seeped into the porous wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is said to be a thread or yarn spool; it seems to have been used lightly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hand carving on the face of the spool is rustic and lovely; on the verso the wood is lightly scored in a repeat of diagonals.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis vintage piece is, obviously, great for winding yarns or thread, but it would also make a nice home accessory, such as coaster for a small, Chinese or Japanese style tea cup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eLovely.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":183556062,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/KoreanSpool1.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-hand-carved-korean-spool-2-vintage","title":"A Hand Carved Korean Spool #2: Vintage","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. mid to late twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\n2 3\/8\" x 6\", 6 cm x 15.25 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a small, hand carved oblong made from a lightweight wood \nwhich is reminiscent of kiri or paulowina wood.  It seems to have been \ncoated with a coat of red-toned lacquer which has seeped into the porous\n wood.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is said to be a thread or yarn spool; it seems to have been used lightly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe\n hand carving on the face of the spool is rustic and lovely; on the \nverso the wood is very lightly scored in a pattern of diagonals.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis \nvintage piece is, obviously, great for winding yarns or thread, but it \nwould also make a nice home accessory, such as coaster for a small, \nChinese or Japanese style tea cup.\u003c\/p\u003e\nLovely.\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":183556102,"sku":"","price":25.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/KoreanSpool2.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-folio-of-hand-drawn-designs-kyoto-workshop","title":"A Folio of 33 Hand Drawn Designs: Kyoto Workshop","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\noutside dimensions: 15 3\/4\" x 11 1\/4\", 40 cm x 28.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis wonderful collection of papers and drawings is less a folio of thematic studies than it is a hodgepodge of random works that have been bound together for safe keeping.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMostly drawn on tissue-weight paper these thirty three drawings are in line, wash, black and white and color and they cover a wide range of subjects.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePictured are architectural plans, traditional Japanese design motifs, landscape studies, images associated with Japanese historical literature and full-page line drawings of everyday objects, among others.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeppered throughout this collection of studies are some images that give pause as you realize the skilled hand and the superb technique that the artist of this anonymous collection possessed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fascinating group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRecommended.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":183556252,"sku":"","price":245.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/MessyFolio1.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-book-of-old-cotton-swatches-1-xx-examples","title":"A Book of Old Cotton Swatches #1: 8 Examples","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth to mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\neach swatch: 14 1\/2\" x 6 3\/4\", 37 cm x 17 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a set of eight antique and vintage cotton pieces which is a variety of stencil resist dyed, solids, striped, plaid and \u003ci\u003ekasuri\u003c\/i\u003e or ikat.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA great palette for many different artistic endeavors.\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":183556372,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/SwatchBook1.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-book-of-old-cotton-swatches-2-xx-examples","title":"A Book of Old Cotton Swatches #2: 11 Examples","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth to mid twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\neach swatch: 13\" x 7\", 33 cm x 18 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a set of eleven antique and vintage cotton pieces which is a variety of stencil resist dyed, solids, striped, plaid and \u003ci\u003ekasuri\u003c\/i\u003e or ikat.\u003c\/p\u003e\nA great palette for many different artistic endeavors.\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":183556452,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/SwatchBook2.jpg?v=1571438536"},{"product_id":"a-book-of-cotton-swatches-3-xx-leaves","title":"A Book of Cotton Swatches #3: 8 Leaves","description":"\u003cp\u003eca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century\u003cbr\u003e\neach leaf, approximately: 14 1\/2\" x 6 1\/2\", 37 cm x 16.5 cm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a set of eleven antique and vintage hand loomed cotton pieces which is a variety of stencil resist dyed, solids, striped, plaid and faux \u003ci\u003ekasuri\u003c\/i\u003e or imitation ikat.\u003c\/p\u003e\nA great palette for many different artistic endeavors.\u003cbr\u003e\n","brand":"Sri","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":186654762,"sku":"","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0070\/9422\/products\/SwatchingBook7.jpg?v=1571438537"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.srithreads.com\/collections\/various-folk-textiles-and-other.oembed?page=45","provider":"Sri","version":"1.0","type":"link"}