|
MINGEIKAN 2010 EXHIBITS & EVENTS
Japanese Dyed Works
- tie-dyed, stenciled and glue-resisted works
July 6 (Tuesday) - September 5 (Sunday), 2010
 |
Japan's reputation for excellence in the field of dyed works supersedes that of all other Eastern countries, including Korea and China. Among the dyeing techniques particular to Japan is the use of rice glue resist, making possible delicate, clearly defined lines and applications of color. By comparison, wax is used for the resist agent in the saraca prints of the far South.
Traditional Japanese dyeing techniques fall into three major categories. Shibori zome(tie-dyeing) is a method in which thread is used to tie the material prior to dyeing. Soaked in the dye, the tied areas do not allow penetration of dye color, producing the desired pattern. The kata zome(stencil) method uses a stencil coated with persimmon tannin to make it strong and water proof. Glutinous rice paste is applied over the stencil, creating a dye resist pattern. Tsutsugaki zome is a method in which the dye is applied directly on the cloth. Using a special bamboo container, glue made of glutinous rice both colors and creates a resist on the fabric for the next color layer.
Two examples of the tie-dyed(shibori zome) method works are displayed:(1) a banner with a three-layered diamond shaped design on vermillion background(16th century), and (2) a Narumi, or summer kimono of cotton fabric(19th century). Stenciled work(kata zome) is represented in the Mikawa, or New Year Dancer's costume(17th century), and the folding screen with arabesque design(19th century). The Tsutsugaki dyeing method was used in making the stage curtain design “Eight Views of Omi”, which is mounted on six folding screen(18th century) and the bed cloth with shell design(a children's game to match a set of shells) (19th century).
Also exhibited are works which combine stencil(kata zone) and Tsutsugaki dyeing techniques such as the Kazuki(a ceremonial hood garment) worn by women(18th century). Originally such garments were worn by noble women in Kyoto, but were later used in northern areas such as Yamagata or Iwate prefectures.
Stenciled(kata zome) and Tsutsugaki techniques used in Okinawa developed along beautifully unique and creative lines. Being located at the very southern tip of Japan meant that influence from subtropical South-east Asia neighbors was inevitable. Among the most representative of these works is the colorfully dyed Bingata with its bold stencil design(19th century). These bold designs and vivid colors were used by nobles and kings of the Okinawa Islands. Another outstanding example of Tsutsugaki in Okinawa is the wrapping cloths, called uchuqui(19th century).
(Reference: A Display Guide for Nihon Mingeikan, Soetsu Yanagi, for monthly magazine Mingei, Feb.1961)
| 
