A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Phoenix Rain Capes

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
25" x 13 3/4", 63.5 cm x 35 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed cotton katazome cloth that shows a complex, swirling pattern with interesting content. 

What we see is a field of a repeat pattern winged things that appear to be phoenixes--they appear even more so as phoenixes because they are surrounded by paulownia flowers which are associated with the legendary bird. 

In fact the winged image is a magical rain cape.

According to legend this cape affords the wearer the power of invisibility; this is a mythical Japanese concept and the image is sometimes seen on Japanese design and can often be confused with a phoenix. The association is intended, no doubt.

The background is a deep, rich indigo. Grey and rust tones add depth and movement to the animated design. There is one, patched hole--not easy to see and shown on the detail photos here--but otherwise the cloth is in very good condition.

Super lovely and with a fairly rare pattern this is a katazome cloth to consider.

Recommended.