A Fragment of Shikon Dyed Cotton: Gromwell Root

early twentieth century
14 1/2" x 14", 37 cm x 35.5 cm

This small square of shibori dyed cotton bears the dye called shikon in Japan and gromwell root in English. The dye, obviously, produces a purple color and this type of dye is usually associated with Japan's rural Tohoku region where this fragment was made.

Cloth dyed in shikon is fairly rare and collectible as the output of country cloth dyed in shikon is very small as compared to cloth dyed in indigo. Shikon is also light fugitive and fades quickly when exposed to light.

Often in Tohoku shikon dyed cloth was made using the shibori technique, and this large diamond-shaped pattern is typical of the shibori designs employed there.

A wonderful fragment, especially for those who practice dyeing with plant-based dyes.