A Length of Shibori Dyed Cotton: Tortoise Shell Motif

early to mid twentieth century
26 1/4" x 13 3/4", 66.5 cm x 35 cm

This is a length of indigo dyed cotton shibori that was produced in Arimatsu, one of the towns in Aichi prefecture that was a leading producer and innovator in the production of shibori. 

The pattern shows a repeat pattern of large scale hexagons which are shown as tilted. Hexagons are a Japanese shorthand or stand in for tortoise shell. As tortoises are symbols of long life, this kind of pattern conveys a wish for the same.

The tie dyed pattern is dyed onto a length of commercially loomed, fairly lightweight cotton and is in good, used condition.