A Length of Katazome: Peonies in a European Style

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
36" x 13 1/4", 91.5 cm x 33.5 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed katazome cotton that shows a repeat pattern of rows of stylized peonies, four to a row.

The pattern seems to be influenced by European designs of the time which, ironically, initially could have been influenced by Japanese art and design. The influence of Japanese art on 19th century European art and design is well known--and as much as Japanese culture had an impact on Europe, the impact resounded back toward Japan in a kind of aesthetic alternating current.

The judicious dark coloration of selected peonies in this design adds so much visual interest as does the number and placement of the white and blue peonies which are the bulk of the design.

As can be seen there is light fading and wear to the left hand side of the piece and there are a few, small holes, too which are pictured on the detail photos attached here.

This is quite an unusual design and it is as beautiful as it is rare.