Decorated Bands like Ainu Applique
This katagami mimics traditional applique textilesof the Ainu people, an ethnic group native to Japan and Russia. If you look ‘Ainu’ up on wikipedia there’s a wonderful group photograph that shows these garments.
Large Size — Typical dimensions of the large type are 18.5" x 13.5"
Reversing Ground Composition — in a reversing ground stencil the pattern is composed from fields of opposite technique; light forms are carved into dark field which is then mirrored by dark forms suspended in light field. Often the two elements make a large overall pattern like a diagonal stripe.
Silk Reinforcement — this stencil is reinforced with silk threads woven specifically to this pattern inserted between two sheets of carved paper.
Subject — textile
Keywords — clouds, fox, fret, koi in waves, patchwork, silk, stars, textile, tie dye