A Length of Indigo Dyed Cotton Katazome: Tatewaku and Roundels

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
60 1/2" x 13", 153.5 cm x 33 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed katazome cotton that shows an unusual pattern that merges the traditional tatewaku (or parallel, undulating lines) motif with roundels.

The theme is momiji or maple leaves which can be seen both in the roundels in two different design treatments as well as appearing along the vertical stretch of the undulating lines.

There is a vaguely European flavor to the design which makes sense given the cultural exchange between Europe and Japan during the Meiji era (1868-1912) and beyond

The cotton cloth seems to be hand spun and hand woven and has is nicely textured in a way that that indicates this.

It is in good, used condition and bears a fantastic, unusual and very attractive design.