A Length of Handwoven Boro: Indigo and Benibana Dyes

ca. late nineteenth century
60" x 13 1/2", 152.5 cm x 34 cm

This richly colored length of hand loomed cotton is dyed in both indigo and safflower, or benibana.  The stripes of coral/orange are yarns which were dyed in safflower, a dyestuff which yields a spectrum of colors from yellows through fuschia, depending on the way the safflower is treated and how the dyed cloth is mordanted.

This woven stripe is bold and direct, and the colors are still intense and attractive.

The length, taken from a futon cover, is hand stitched from two pieces and is embellished with four mending patches, each of them beautifully placed.  

A wonderful length of cloth from old Japan, and one with beautiful color and thread taste.