A Beautifully Bold and Symmetrical Length of Kurume Gasuri: Graphic Appeal
early to mid twentieth century
60" x 13 3/4", 152.5 cm x 35 cm
This eye-dazzling length of indigo dyed cotton kasuri cloth is of a type made in the area of Kurume in Kyushu. Kurume gasuri is known for its bold, geometric, high-contrast graphics and this piece is typical of that style.
This panel was taken from a futon cover which probably would have been composed of four or five of these pieces, each taken from the same bolt. When constructed and laid next to each other the geometric pattern would be compounded and would create a complex field of staggered white blocks in beautiful formation.
The contrast between the very deeply toned indigo and the undyed areas is rich and the weaving is fairly clear.
The pattern on this one panel is strong and, in person, arresting. It grabs your attention and keeps it.
Recommended.