Pattern of dye and Weaving

This book compiles 250 kimono patterns from the Edo to Taisho periods, vividly unfolding the essence of Japan’s dyeing and weaving culture.

It is a redesigned reprint of “Dyeing and Weaving Masterpieces (woodblock multicolor printing, published in Taisho year 3).”

Since the Momoyama period, various techniques such as Tsujigahana dyeing, Chaya dyeing, and Chintz have been developed, and during the Edo period, dyeing and weaving pattern expression dramatically evolved, starting with Yuzen dyeing.

Dyeing on white fabric allowed for the free creation of patterns featuring themes of natural beauty, tools, animals, stories, and landscapes, creating a vivid and expansive world of patterns.

On the other hand, woven fabrics, made by alternating vertical and horizontal threads, produced various techniques such as Nishiki, Aya, Ro, Kinran, Ginran, and Donsu, featuring stylistic and rhythmic unique patterns. Among them, lively striped and lattice patterns were particularly popular, and the prestigious Yuusoku patterns were also highly esteemed and passed down.

Commentary by: Kazuo Shiro (Professor at Kyoritsu Women’s University)