A Very Large Tsutsugaki Furoshiki: Heavy Cotton

ca. early to mid twentieth century
64" x 56", 162.5 cm x 142.25 cm

This is a dramatic and large tsutsugaki dyed furoshiki, a traditional Japanese wrapping and carrying cloth.

The indigo is dyed in two tones, a rich, pale blue and deep, velvety navy blue.  The centerpiece of this cloth is a hand drawn family crest or kamon, in this case mokko or so-called "melon" which is situated under a stylized roof form.

In the lower, right hand corner is a pair of complex, multi-stroked kanji or Chinese character which represents a family name, Kudo.

The cotton of this furoshiki is heavy and very tightly woven; the cotton yarns are probably not hand spun as the cloth shows a uniform surface feel and texture.

Note the scuffs to the surface, the slight areas of indigo loss--about six flecks in all--and a small snag and hole or two on this well-used utilitarian textile from old Japan.

The indigo is remarkably bright and clear and overall the furoshiki is in very good condition.

Just lovely.