A Patched Length of Blue on Blue Plaid: Rich Indigo Color

early twentieth century
72 1/2" x 12 1/2", 184 cm x 31.75 cm

This is a length of very straightforward yet beautifully toned plaid cotton cloth that is studded with a few small patches and pitted with several small holes.

The two deep, warm tones of indigo are visually attractive together and the scale of the plaid as it relates to the size of the cloth is very nice.

The length may have been taken from a kimono--which is a delightful thing to imagine. Japanese plaids are varied and many and it is wonderful to pore over images of ukiyo-e to see just how popular plaid kimono were in old Japan.

The bottom part of the cloth shows some unmended pits and holes and in general the piece is quite worn, but what is wonderful about it is the richness of color and strategic placement of patches.