A Length of Indigo Dyed Katazome Cotton: Cranes in Diamonds

early twentieth century
31 3/4" x 13 1/2", 81 cm x 34 cm

This kind of blue-on-white katazome cloth is referred to as jishiro and it is always considered to be a step above the white-on-blue variety as jishiro is more difficult to produce.

This length shows a very even and beautifully symmetrical repeat pattern of pairs of cranes rendered as diamonds, the diamond shape is reinforced by wide, deep toned blue lines that delineate these decorative/symbolic images.

The crane is a symbol of long life as well as conjugal fidelity and as such it was a popular design to use on items in a bridal trousseau. More than likely this length came from a futon cover that was part of a bride's collection.

There are some areas of smudged, stray dye but overall this is a very crisp, clearly dyed length of cloth with a beautifully realized repeat pattern.

This is just lovely to look at.