A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Cranes and Tortoises

early twentieth century
62 1/4" x 13", 158 cm x 33 cm

This rustic length of indigo dyed, hand spun cotton katazome cloth shows a repeat pattern of cranes and tortoises rendered as roundels, roundels being known in Japan as maurmon. The crane and tortoise designs are set against a field of arabesque which sprouts what seem to be bamboo leaves, bamboo being a symbol of resilience since the bamboo plant bends but does not break.

Both the crane and the tortoise, often shown in combination and referred to as tsurukame, are each symbols of longevity, so they were a popular design motif in old Japan because of the auspicious nature of their symbolism.

This length is shown as slightly pale blue-on-dark blue and was most probably taken from a futon cover that was more than likely specially made for a bridal trousseau.

The condition is used and old and the color tones are still quite rich.

A beautiful fragment of traditional katazome cotton.