An Overdyed Resist Dyed Furoshiki: Geese on Family Crest

early to mid twentieth century
39" x 38", 99 cm x 96.5 cm

This square of over dyed, indigo dyed cotton is stencil resist dyed on its upper left and lower right corners.  This is a furoshiki, which is a type of traditional wrapping or carrying cloth that was used every in old Japan. 

The deep, mossy green color is the result of indigo being dipped into a yellow dyestuff to create a green tone: you will see a large splotch of blue color in the bottom, center of this cloth.  This is where the yellow dye did not take, leaving behind a patch of pure blue.

The roundel depicts stylized geese and is a family crest.  The kanji or Chinese characters show a family name.

The cotton is hand loomed and is of a nice, heavy weight.  The cloth is completely hand stitched.

A wonderful, utilitarian textile from old Japan, this furoshiki is made of good, old cotton and traditional dyeing practices.  It is a gem.

Delightful.