A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Gingko Leaves
early twentieth century
29" x 12 1/4", 73.75 cm x 31 cm
This is an attractive length of indigo dyed katazome cotton which shows a relatively unusual pattern.
It shows falling gingko leaves against a geometric background, the design of the background is sprouting vines or branches which are show a meandering of right-angled, vertically-oriented lines.
Although gingko leaves are regularly seen in Japanese design they are not very often seen in folk textiles, so their appearance here is a very nice surprise.
The resist dyeing shows imperfections which lends a rustic air to this length, and the cotton is in used condition which has nicely softened the indigo color. One cotton patch is applied to the piece and one of the short ends is hand finished.
A very nice length of cotton in a fairly unusual pattern.