(FABRIC DESIGN). (JAPAN). YAMASHITA Konosuke. Hana fukusa. [Pattern book for cloth].

A Global Fabric

(FABRIC DESIGN). (JAPAN). YAMASHITA Konosuke. Hana fukusa. [Pattern book for cloth]. (Osaka: Printed by Aoki Tsunesaburo, Meiji 26 [1893]) 23 double folded leaves. One of two volumes only. (262 x 178 mm.)  Original eggplant-colored fabric, printed paper label on upper cover. With 20 leaves of color illustrations for chintz, or "sarasa," patterns. A near fine copy with minor issues: corners a little rubbed, light foxing to cover label, small red stain on top edge of text block; paper slightly toned, short tear at head of first and last fold, and a couple of thumb smudges or tiny stains. 

A beautiful collection of chintz designs based on fabrics from India, marketed toward a Japanese audience.

Chintz (or "sarasa," as it is locally known) originated in India, and features colorful floral, arabesque, and geometric designs, as well as animal motifs and even human figures. The fabric was introduced to Japan in the 16th century via European traders, and the Japanese perfected their own methods of producing the textile during the Edo period. The present work captures the sumptuous colors and sense of exoticism associated with sarasa cloth. While the overall appearance of this work evokes an Indian aesthetic, the designs also incorporate symbols and motifs that were popular in Japan, including fans, chrysanthemums, and the circular "tomoe" symbol. The term "fukusa" in the title refers to small squares of fabric used for purposes such as tea ceremonies and to wrap formal gifts, suggesting the high value placed on sarasa fabric in Japanese culture.

This work would originally have been produced in two volumes, but it is not unusual to find single volumes on the market. We have not been able to find any other copies of this exact work online, but similar reprints do exist; however, ours stands out for its lovely cloth binding, thick paper, and excellent condition. (1024)