A Mame Shibori Cotton Pouch: End Bolt Stamp

early twentieth century
13" x 14 1/4", 33 cm x 36 cm

This wonderful little hand stitched object is a pouch made of gauzy cotton that was dyed in the mame--or bean--shibori method where cloth is pleated and where dye is targeted to prescribed areas of the cloth in order to create a charming and familiar pattern of "beans." 

Here is a short video documenting a bit of the dyeing process.

The purpose of this pouch is unclear but certainly it has many of applications still today, plus, it is a charming thing to appreciate.

Please note the black stamp on the front of the flap: this is a maker's or broker's stamp which was put on the bolt of cloth after it was made and before it was sold.