A Length of Reversible Edo Komon Silk: A Different Pattern on Each Side
late nineteenth century
60" x 13 1/2", 152.5 cm x 35.25 cm
This is a long and drapey length of chirimen or crepe silk that is dyed in the very small, all over pattern called Edo komon.
The pattern is called this because this tiny repeat design was made popular toward the end of Japan's Edo period (1603-1868): the word komon indicates it is an all-over design.
The very unusual thing about this is that each of its two sides bears a completely different Edo komon pattern, an astonishing detail that is rarely seen. Because of this, this length is reversible and is very attractive when looking at both its sides.
There is a partial,hand painted family crest on the length and in this case it is a plum blossom, beautifully rendered.
This is a wonderful piece of cloth to own and one that is remarkable for its rarity.
Beautiful.