artisan's name unknown
Clutch Bag , printed cotton from India, Taisho Era (1912-1926)
Cotton
5" x 8 1/4"
Further images
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 1
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 2
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 3
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 4
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 5
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 6
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 7
)
-
(View a larger image of thumbnail 8
)
Until the 18th century, most of the fabrics used in Japan were made of silk or hemp. The first cotton fabrics seen in Japan were printed textiles brought from India...
Until the 18th century, most of the fabrics used in Japan were made of silk or hemp. The first cotton fabrics seen in Japan were printed textiles brought from India by Dutch, Portuguese, and English traders around the beginning of 1800s. The use of cotton gradually spread throughout Japan and printed cotton fabrics from India came into fashion. Printing onto textiles was a significant advent to Japanese culture that was also introduced during this time.
Looking closely, you will notice the exquisite artistry in the details of this simple clutch. The lining is treated beautifully, the superb metal work, and the thoughtful way in which the mirror is placed, sliding perfectly out of one of the three pockets, tells about the craft of a bygone era.
The joy of carrying this clutch is similar to what one might feel when reading a book printed in letterpress. The similarity lies in appreciating an artisan’s obsessive attempt to create excellent works, that reaches us when we hold it.
Looking closely, you will notice the exquisite artistry in the details of this simple clutch. The lining is treated beautifully, the superb metal work, and the thoughtful way in which the mirror is placed, sliding perfectly out of one of the three pockets, tells about the craft of a bygone era.
The joy of carrying this clutch is similar to what one might feel when reading a book printed in letterpress. The similarity lies in appreciating an artisan’s obsessive attempt to create excellent works, that reaches us when we hold it.