A Length of Large Scale Katazome Design: Chrysanthemum Blooms Seen from Behind

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
36" x 13", 91.5 cm x 33 cm

This interestingly designed length of indigo dyed katazome cotton shows a repeat patterns of two rows of chrysanthemums shown in large scale.

A curious detail about this pattern is that the each of the alternating chrysanthemum blooms is shown from behind.

These seen-from-behind blooms are ringed in an ochre tone, a color added to the design after the entire length was dyed.

The stylization of the flowers and their large format and regular placement make for a compelling design--not to mention the unusual view of the backs of some.