A Length of Kuzufu: Woven Kudzu Fiber

$80.00 USD

late nineteenth century
23 1/4" x 14", 59 cm x 35.5 cm

Kuzufu is cloth woven from fibers processed from the kudzu plant, a species infamous outside Japan for being invasive.

In Japan, kuzufu was something of a luxury good because of its beautiful surface sheen. Often used for high-class garments worn by samurai, kuzufu is usually woven against a cotton warp and can be piece dyed as this one is, or figured.

Kuzufu is a bit stiff to the touch and its most notable, and desirable, characteristic is its glossy surface which gives off a bit of a sheen.

This piece was dyed in a brown-colored dye and it does not have intact selvedges.  As well, it shows ingrained creases from its former life as a garment of some sort--probably men's hakama-- and its color is still very rich, clear and warm.

Collectible for those interested in Japan's woven indigenous fibers.

Recommended.

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