A Length of Beautifully Dyed Cotton: Complex 19th Century Pattern

mid to late 19th century
33 1/2" x 13", 85 cm x 33.5 cm

What a beauty. This is an old length of hand spun, hand dyed katazome cotton that more than likely dates to the middle of the nineteenth century.

Because of the hand spun yarns the cloth has a marvelous texture. The colors, too, are intact: the indigo blue is clear and the orange pigment derived dye that is used to add depth to the pattern are both quite rich.

The pattern shows roundels of cherry blossoms encircled by stylized wisteria blooms. Chrysanthemums and arabesques fill out the background of the design.

The length has a good texture and shows wonderful age: it is a real beauty.