A Shibori Fragment: Stitched Interlocking Circles

ca. mid twentieth century
24 1/2" x 13 1/4", 62 cm x 33.5 cm 

This is a stunning, short length of indigo dyed cotton shibori.  Just beautiful.

The base cotton is dyed a very pale blue.  Over top this pale colored base is a stitched pattern in dark indigo, the design being shippo tsunagi or interlocking circles.

The technique used to create this effect is the use of small paper pieces that were stitched into the cloth; these paper-lined areas would repel dye and the effect is as you see it here, simply wonderful.

The cloth has been used--it was taken from a yukata or a casual kimono--and there are ingrained creases and patched area.  

Also, please note, as illustrated on the accompanying detail photographs, there are three, match head-sized "rust" stains on the cloth, two quite faint and more a bit more noticeable.  The faint areas of staining do not detract from the overall beauty of this length of hand dyed shibori cotton, but they must be noted.

Recommended.