A Length of Gradient Striped Cotton: Waterfall Allusion

early twentieth century
56" x 13 1/2", 142 cm x 34 cm

Shown here is a panel taken from a futon cover that is woven in a striped pattern composed of regularly spaced stripes of varying widths, creating an effect that is meant to suggest a waterfall.

This pattern was often seen in textile designs from the 19th and early 20th century in Japan and, aside from this historical connection, it is an absolutely beautifully graphic design on its own.

The "background" color is a deep indigo blue that reads black. One of the sets of stripes is a silvery-white-grey color and the other is a brownish tone.

The cotton is softly worn and the weave of the cotton is tight.  The dyes are more than likely botanical.

 A very attractive length of nicely designed and executed cotton.