A Length of Blue-on-White Shibori: Shirakage Asanoha Pattern

early to mid twentieth century
31 3/4" x 13", 80.5 cm x 33 cm

This is a very attractive length of indigo dyed cotton shibori which has been dyed in the shirakage method, a kind of specialized, stitched shibori that yields a blue-on-white pattern. Shirakage shibori is often cited as being a very difficult technique and when offered for sale it is understandably often slightly elevated in price compared to other examples.

The repeat design is that of the asa no ha or hemp leaf, a traditional Japanese design and one that is often-used in endless variation of design.

This length was taken from a yukata or an unlined, casual cotton kimono and as such it still bears ingrained creases from its former life.

Overall the condition is good and most importantly this is a very nicely done piece of shirakage shibori showing a well-loved design motif.

Just beautiful.