A Length of Large Repeat Katazome Dyed Cotton: Crane and Tortoise

early twentieth century
74" x 13 1/2", 188 cm x 34 cm

This is a generously-size length of indigo dyed katazome cotton, the indigo tone is so deep that it reads as black.

The length shows a wonderful repeat pattern in large-scale, the subject is that of the tortoise and crane, two auspicious Japanese symbols of longevity. 

So familiar is this pairing of tortoise and crane that in Japan there is a saying: "a crane a thousand years, a tortoise ten thousand years."

Each crane and tortoise is represented quite large and is neither is perfectly stencil resisted--there are some flaws to the resist dyeing which add to its charm. 

This is a bold statement in katazome dyeing and its good-sized length is notable. The condition is good and used, and the indigo dye is deep and rich.