A Square of Katazome Dyed Cotton: Playful Arrangements of Capes

early twentieth century
18 !/2" x 13", 47 cm x 33 cm

This small piece of indigo dyed katazome cotton shows a playful arrangement of treasured auspicious images that are part of a group called takarazukushi.

Seen most prominently here is the mythical cloak of invisibility that, yes, when worn, renders the wearer invisible to others. Also seen on this pattern is the magic mallet, counterweights and a snippet of a pattern called interlocking circles.

Interesting to note that this length of old cloth was stencil resist dyed on both sides so the pattern is as clear on the front as it is on the back.

A marvelous little fragment loaded with visual interest and traditional meaning.