A Tsutsugaki Dyed Large Furoshiki: Dramatic Zigzag

early twentieth century
57 1/2" x 47", 146 cm x 119.25 cm

This is a large, cotton furoshiki or a traditional wrapping, storing or hauling cloth that is still very much in use today. This one is hand stitched from four individual widths of cloth.

The tsutsugaki dyed design is one we see often on furoshiki. It is split down the center on a zigzag diagonal with half the design in a kind of brownish rust color and the other half in a warm, grey tone. The line which separates the two halves is sharp. 

Seen on the top, right hand corner is a family crest while on the bottom, left hand corner we see pine and bamboo depicted, both of which carry auspicious symbolism for the Japanese. 

The bamboo bends but does not break so it is a symbol of resilience, and the pine, of course conveys a wish for longevity.  Also, pine needles fall in pairs, and thus they are a motif symbolizing conjugal bliss.

In used condition, there is some pitting to the cloth, some very faint, small stains and some distortion to the center of the piece due to its long life of use in carrying goods which were tightly wrapped within it.

This is of a wonderfully large size and is very handsome.