A Length of Kumanozome: Stunning 19th Century Stencil Dye

late nineteenth century
25" x 12 3/4", 53.5 cm cm x 32.5 cm

This is a very good fragment of a wonderful old type of stenciled cotton known as Kumanozome.

Kumanozome refers to a place of origin, an area near present-day Okayama Prefecture: Kumano is well-known for producing this type of optically entrancing cloth.  

Kumanozome is immediately recognizable for its decidedly "Op Arat" moire effect of undulating, crossing lines and sometimes contrasting colors and values were used to heighten this effect.

This fragment was taken from a futon cover.

There is some light surface abrasion overall and a bit fading.at the bottom. There is a curved tear to the bottom of the piece so the fragment is not a regular rectangle shape.

A lovely, very collectible piece of distinctly dyed cotton from old Japan.

Recommended.