A Three Panel Resist Dyed Noren: Handwoven, Indigo Dyed Cotton

early twentieth century
39" x 37", 99 cm x 94 cm

This is a very handsome, three-panel, indigo dyed and resisted noren, a kind of traditional shop sign that is still widely used in Japan.

This particular noren shows a very bold design which is resisted onto very nice, hand woven cotton which seems to be hand spun. In places, the indigo has just barely faded from wear which makes it beautiful, and, likewise, the undyed, resisted areas of the noren also show signs of the passing of time: there is some faint yellowing and some ingrained dirt from use, which also gives it charm.

The design is symmetrically placed an simply arranged.  The quality of the cloth and the dyeing is very good, as is the condition of this wonderful piece of old Japan.

Recommended.