A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Fantasy Flowers and Hexagon Repeat

late nineteenth century
35" x 14 1/4", 89 cm x 36 cm

What an intriguing length of indigo dyed katazome cotton cloth.  

This is a handsome length of stencil resist dyed cloth that shows a repeat pattern of hexagons inside of which is an arranged design of stylized flowers that seem to be the caprice of the artisan who created the stencil. The interlocking hexagons are a suggestion of tortoiseshell, which, in turn, conveys a wish for long life.

The general condition of the length is faded and with overall surface abrasion, both of which serve to show off the hand spun cotton yarns that were used to weave this piece.

An attractive and charming length of old katazome cotton.

Recommended.