A Length of Shibori Overdyed with Katazome Cotton: Complex Patterns

early twentieth century
56 1/4" x 12 1/4", 143 cm x 31 cm

This length of twice-dyed cotton is fascinating for its process. It is a rare type of shibori that has been overdyed in an all over katazome pattern of arabesque.

It seems that this length was first dyed in shibori: you can see the traces of this on the full length so you have to imagine the original cloth showed indigo dyed shibori shapes on a white ground.

There are beautifully applied patches on the reverse side that have informed the idea that this was blue-on-white shibori that has been overdyed, the reason being is that the patches on the reverse side were clearly applied to the shibori cloth before katazome dyeing because if you lift up a corner of one of the patches you will see the original, white cloth, somewhat proving that the color of the original cloth before katazome dyeing was white.

It is a truly wonderful length of old katazome/shibori cloth and the reverse side with its patches is also beautiful.

There is fading and surface abrasion from wear, of course.

If you look very closely and if you use your sense of touch you can notice the areas of cloth that are shibori dyed are still raised and textured.

Recommended.