A Sashiko Stitched and Tsutsugaki Dyed Furoshiki: Unusual Pairing of Techniques

early twentieth century
54" x 51 1/2", 137 cm x 131 cm

This fairly large-sized furoshiki is not only noteworthy for its rich, symbol-laden design but also for its two techniques: all four corners are expertly sashiko stitched and the complex center image is tsutsugaki dyed. This marriage of two techniques in one cloth is unusual.

The top right and lower left hand corner are stitched in a design that appears to be a folding fan that terminates in flower forms while the top left and lower right corners show a pattern of crosses that in actual fact is a repeat pattern of the Buddhist swastika.

The center of the cloth shows large, hand drawn and resisted images of a crane, a pine branch and tree trunk and a sprig of bamboo. The images are rich in symbolism: the crane and pine convey a wish for a long life while at the same time they mean conjugal fidelity. Cranes mate for life and pine needles fall in pairs. Bamboo signifies resilience as it bends but does not break.

Shown as well is a resisted image of a family crest depicted as a paulownia flower (lower right corner) and a blank oval that contains a red stamp.

Note that there is a spray of starch-like matter to the area of the furoshiki. As well there are a few nicks to the cloth and some faded, blurred spots which are illustrated here.

The green-blue color of the cloth is more than likely a green toned dye and not over dyed indigo. And it is important to note that a furoshiki is a traditional cloth that is used for the storage and hauling of goods--and it is still very much in use today.

This is a complex and beautifully realized large furoshiki with lots of fine details and a highly auspicious group of images.

Recommended.