A piece of antique Japanese indigo-dyed cotton featuring a bold chrysanthemum arabesque pattern created using the traditional katazome stencil-resist dyeing technique.

Several varieties of large chrysanthemum blossoms are arranged among sharply detailed leaves and rhythmic scrolling vines. One face includes muted gray and near-black accents, adding depth and variation to the composition. Each antique textile is one of a kind.

The chrysanthemum, or kiku, is an important traditional Japanese motif associated with longevity, renewal, nobility, and autumn.

Arabesque, or karakusa, is a traditional scrolling-vine motif symbolizing vitality, continuity, and enduring growth.

Katazome is a traditional Japanese resist-dyeing method in which rice paste is applied through hand-cut paper stencils before the cloth is dyed. The resisted areas remain lighter, creating intricate repeated patterns with subtle handmade variations.

This textile likely dates from the Taisho period and is decorated on both sides. One face features additional gray and dark accents, creating a multicolor appearance, while the opposite face presents the same floral composition primarily in indigo and an aged light color.

Differences in color, pattern definition, and dye penetration between the two faces reflect the handmade dyeing and coloring process.

The exact age and dyeing process are not documented; however, the material, pattern, double-sided decoration, coloring, and aged appearance are consistent with antique Japanese cotton textiles from the Taisho period.

Today, antique Japanese indigo textiles are appreciated worldwide for their wabi-sabi beauty, craftsmanship, and visual texture. They are often collected, displayed, or used for sashiko, patchwork, boro-inspired projects, quilting, sewing, and textile art.

This cloth shows natural signs of age, including fading, discoloration, small marks, creases, uneven edges, and general wear consistent with an antique textile. These characteristics are considered part of its history and authentic charm.

Multi-buy discounts are automatically applied when purchasing multiple items.
Free shipping from Japan with tracking and insurance.

Condition: Used (vintage, very good condition)
Please check all photos carefully for details.

Approximate size:
Size inch : 67.7 × 13.8 inches (172 × 35 cm)
Weight : 130 g
Materials : Cotton
Era : Taisho period (1912–1926)
Technique : Double-sided katazome stencil-resist dyeing / indigo dye with additional coloring on one face
Measurements are approximate.