A Length of Faded and Worn Resist Dyed Cotton: Bold Geometry

early twentieth century
32 1/21" x 13 1/4", 82.5 cm x 33.5 cm

This is a length of stencil dyed cotton cloth that has been dyed using kaki shibu or the fermented juice extracted from an inedible type of bitter, green persimmon. Kaki shibu yields a brownish tone and is used widely, mainly on utilitarian textiles for the reason that it is said to strengthen the woven fibers and increase durability of the cloth.

This one shows a beautifully bold design of two widths of a diamond pattern. The cloth itself shows a good deal of surface wear and the dyed areas are quite faded from wear and age.

The length is composed of two pieces, one of which is just a sliver and is hand stitched to the top of the length.

A very attractive length of cloth this one would look great displayed as art or integrated into your home.