A Length of Mottled and Faded Benibana Dyed Ramie: Safflower

early twentieth century
48" x 13", 122 cm x 33 cm

This is a length of ramie cloth that has been dyed in benibana or safflower dye.

The length is one-half of the bodice of a han juban or half under kimono and we can tell that by the notch on the center, right of the length and of the fade patterns to the cloth.

Benibana is a delicate dye and it is light fugitive. It also does not react well to washing or wear.

Because of these details we see a faded pink surface that has lost a good deal of dye and has become mottled. This unintended loss of dye over time has created a gorgeous, lush surface of soft pink color tones which are distributed in random, organically arranged areas on this length.

A lovely thing to own and one that is a study in color and surface.