A Length of Northern Shibori: Grasses, Flowers, Butterflies

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
56 1/2" x 12 1/2", 143.5 cm x 31.75 cm

This is a length of deeply toned indigo dyed shibori cotton of a type that was produced in northern Japan: this kind of shibori is characterized by stark white designs on a dark blue background.

The cotton is tightly woven and is drapey in the hand. The images evoke the autumn season with its repeat pattern of garden scene of fall grasses, Chinese bellflowers and butterflies.

The cloth is in used condition but with a still-deep indigo tone and a good looking, well-executed design. Note the lone, five-pointed shape on the top, right of the length. It is not in keeping with the rest of the design and is curious for that reason.

This is a good example of northern shibori, and one which shows a striking pattern of delicate images.