katagami (Stencil)

About this object

History of use

The katazome method of dying fabric used a resist paste applied through a stencil; when the paste dried the stencil was removed and colour was applied by brush. The paste was then washed away leaving undyed areas to form pattern against coloured ground. Prior to the 16th century cut stencils were used to colour leather armour. However, during the Edo Period (1603-1868) the technique was developed as a true native craft.

Cultural context

fabric printing

Iconographic meaning

Chrysanthemum: longevity, sun, autumn, royal emblem.

Physical description

The rectangular stencil has a cut design of three peony flowers surrounded by leaves and a scroll pattern. There are register points along the edges of the design. There is a fan-shaped cutout in one corner. Traces of Japanese script on the back.