A Chuusen Dyed and Sashiko Stitched Cloth: Pine Bark Motif

mid twentieth century
23 1/4" x 12", 59 cm x 30 cm

This attractively dyed and sashiko stitched cotton cloth is composed of about three or four layers and was intended to be a diaper.

The base cloth is chuusen dyed which is a technique that employs a type of primitive vacuum to draw dye through many layers of cloth guided by hand cut stencils. In this case we see a repeated diamond pattern.

Over the diamond pattern is sashiko stitched an intricate network of the pine bark or matsukawabishi design. There is a loop on either side of the top of the cloth which was probably intended to be used to secure the diaper in the event it was used.

On one side of the cloth there is one subtle stripe of light fading in the center, from side so side, otherwise this seems to be in unused condition.

A bright and interesting cloth showing wonderful design and execution.

Charming.