A Complex Shibori and Sashiko Textile: Indigo Dyed Cotton

ca. early to mid twentieth century
23" x 12", 58.5 cm x 30 cm

This is a dazzling little indigo dyed cotton cloth--it is said to be either a diaper or a zokin as each of these two everyday textiles are fashioned in more or less the same way, usually by some form of layering of cloth which is sashiko stitched together.

In either case, this seemingly unused cloth is very fancy--and shows some great technical skills on the part of the makers.

The base cloth is a deeply dyed shibori, the indigo dyed shibori showing three tones: the rich, velvety deep indigo of the base, the light tones of the zigzagging, small, "spiderwebs" pattern and the bright white of the occasional "splotches" of undyed cotton.  On top of this is a network of asa no ha-like sashiko stitching which is done with a very sure hand, and the bright white of the cotton sashiko stitching in lovely contrast to the indigo dyed base.

The cotton cloth is hand woven and this marvelously vibrant textile seems to be made of about three layers.

As noted above, this piece seems unused, and it is a wonderful thing to behold.  Certainly it dazzles the eye.

Recommended.