A Length of Stenciled Hemp or Ramie Cloth: Blurred or Mottled Background

mid twentieth century
62" x 13 1/2", 157.5 cm x 34 cm

This is a length of lightweight hemp or ramie cloth that was no doubt used for a summer futon cover.

The large repeat pattern was stenciled onto to the cloth: the dye was most likely applied directly rather than the length being resist dyed.

The background is of a pale blue and is very slightly mottled as can be seen on the accompanying detail photos here.

The pattern is of pairs of large scale tatewaku a traditional motif of undulating, parallel lines, sometimes referred to as rising steam. Medallions show a phoenix alighting on a paulownia bloom.

In good but used condition this is a lovely and translucent piece of old asa or bast fiber cloth. Two insignificant and small, pale stains shown on the detail photos here.