A Length of Indigo Dyed Hemp or Ramie: Katazome Mimicking Kasuri

late nineteenth century
51" x 13 3/4", 129.5 cm x 35 cm

This is a length of woven hemp or ramie that has been katazome dyed to fool the eye: the stencil resist dyed pattern is meant to mimic kasuri.

The pattern is a simple repeat of abstracted cross hatches and the cloth itself is fairly supple or drapey in the hand. The indigo color tone is still quite deep and rich and the overall visual appeal is high.

Note the mend to the top, left corner of the piece, shown here.

A deceptively simple looking length of cloth that shows a great deal of sophistication in its concept and execution.

Delightful.