A Length of Patched Edo Komon Cotton Cloth: 19th Century Pattern

mid 19th century
34 12/" x 13 1/2", 87.5 cm x 34 cm

This is a length of the marvelous, nineteenth century katazome dyed cotton cloth known as Edo komon, or what can be translated as Edo era all-over patterned cloth.

Edo komon, is a small figured, all-over patterned cloth that was popular in the late Edo period (1603-1868).  

During this time period the central government enforced laws on the population which regulated almost all aspects of life, dress included.  

Most people in Edo era Japan were told by the government to dress in subtle, dark colors and small patterns; because of this, elaborate, very small patterned cloth was developed and then became popular, the reason being was that one could still wear figured clothing while not breaking any of the sumptuary laws that were laid down. 

Countless tiny-figured designs were developed during this period and for this reason we know that the cloth which was used to create this garment dates to the 19th century.  

This length shows a stenciled design that when viewed from a distance appears blurred or to be a solid, medium grey tone.

There is one, lone patch that is stitched in white thread and shows a charming little design of thread--super charming.