Japanese Wa-Sarasa Cotton Panel with Large Floral Pattern

Size: Approximately 28.5 by 13 inches (72.4 by 33 cm)
Japan · Circa 1850–1880, late Edo to early Meiji · Cotton

Large flowers and leaves cover this Japanese wa-sarasa cotton panel in blue-gray, ochre, and cream. Between them, a fine dotted pattern fills the background.

It was stencil-dyed around the late Edo to early Meiji period. The dotted background is of the Sakai sarasa regional tradition.

The broad section of fabric gives you a good view of the repeat. Turn it over and the same pattern appears in softer color.

Details

• Technique: Stencil dyeing
• Attribution: Sakai sarasa
• Design: Large repeating floral and leaf pattern with fine dotted ground

Condition

It’s in excellent antique condition. The fabric remains sound and the pattern and color are well preserved. There’s some variation from age and the cut edges are irregular.