A Length of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Unusual Water Plantain Motif

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
34 1/2" x 13", 86.5 cm x 33 cm

This is a marvelously designed length of katazome cotton, it is marvelous because it shows a very-little-seen motif which is the omodaka or water plantain. This image is the three-leafed, grey design that is repeated in large scale along the length of this cloth.

The omodaka is set against a background of arabesque and small dots, the omodaka is sprouting a sprig of orange-tinged flowers which seem to recall the image of wisteria blooms.

The playfulness and the charming, awkwardness of the pattern is, as stated above, quite rare. If it were not rare it would still be desirable for its visual allure.

In good condition there is one very slight nick to the selvedge, lower, right hand side of the length.

Recommended.