A Length of Indigo Dyed Katazome: Bold Hexagon Pattern

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
35 1/2" x 13", 90 cm x 33 cm

This is a length of jishiro--or blue-on-white--indigo dyed katazome cotton cloth that shows a bold pattern of hexagons each of which contains a stylized flower shape.

In Japan the hexagon shape can refer to tortoiseshell, sort of a shorthand, and because tortoises live such a long life this hexagon motif is one that bestows a wish for long life.

The length is in good condition, the indigo is bright and deep in tone and the cloth is barely worn.

Bold and attractive.