An Unused Zukin from Northeastern Japan: Head Covering and Spare Kasuri

This indigo dyed, seemingly unused cotton garment is a traditional head covering from Japan's north east or Tohoku region.  The head covering is called a zukin or a naga tenugui.

Pieces of this type were worn by women while working in the fields to shield them from the sun. The spare kasuri markings woven into the cloth are a sophisticated and subtle foil to the dark blue cotton ground. This type of minimally designed kasuri is said to have been produced in Yamagata prefecture.

Please note the construction of the piece with its inserted gusset and the nice tie on the back of the hood; these are intact and in very good condition.

This head covering lays flat so it can easily be used as a home accessory--or it can be folded and worn as a hat!