Meiji Period Tsuutsugaki Dyed Ceremonial Horse Under Cloth

Here we have a stunning tsuutsugaki dyed, sashiko stitched horses under cloth, dating back to the Meiji Period (1868 - 1912). We believe this horse cloth was likely used as an aesthetic adornment for parades or ceremonial use. The colour Indigo has a significant symbolic meaning in Japanese culture, not only was it an expensive dye, but historically indigo became the colour of the "common people" symbolising purity and the harmony between humans and nature. The use of tsutsugaki dyeing (tube drawing) flourished in Japan, a method that involved drawing rice-paste designs on cloth, dyeing the cloth and then washing the paste. Not only was this a specialised textile dyeing method but it was also incredibly time consuming and would take years to perfect. Not only does this textile offer vibrant colours it is also an excellent example of sashiko stitching, an accent stitch beginning as a necessity among rural communities, typically practised by the women in farming/fishing communities to repair and reinforce worn out garments. This is such an versatile piece of fabric that would compliment any modern home, particularly repurposed as a unique table runner. The dimensions are as follows: H: 265cm W: 70cm Free Shipping with orders over £35 for UK mainland Please pay via Debit/Credit card/Bank Transfer not paypal - as we ship via private transporter and cannot provide a tracking number (they will have your contact details) Thank you for looking and please don't hesitate to contact us with any questions! Check out our Facebook and Instagram (Apeman Interiors)