A Length of Indigo Dyed Cotton Katazome: Stylized Willow Trees

early twentieth century
44" x 13", 111.75 cm x 33 cm

This length of indigo dyed cotton shows an unusual, all-over pattern of stylized willow branches done entirely in small dots which gives a shimmering look to the cloth.

The crispness of the light/dark contrast to be found in the pattern is due to the cloth being stenciled on both its sides, an amazing technical feat.

This pattern is unusual and it is one that shows the artistic invention employed by the artisans who hand cut and made katazome stencils. 

The length is in good, used condition and still bears a sturdy, deep tonal quality of indigo.