A Length of Stenciled Lightweight Bast Fiber Cloth: Large Repeat

early to mid twentieth century
57" x 13", 145 cm x 33 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 so it must be cautioned not to wash this length as the stenciled dye might bleed.

The pattern is of pairs of large flowers, probably a variant on the diamond flower, and the background is a repeat of diamond inside which is placed one stylized chrysanthemum.

In good, used condition this is a lovely and translucent piece of old asa or bast fiber cloth. One minor, small stain, pictured.