This soft cotton cloth from Japan dates to the Taisho to early Showa period (1912–1940). Measuring approximately 32 inches by 17 inches (81 cm x 43 cm), the textile is a stunning example of shibori, the traditional manual resist-dyeing process that transforms functional fabric into wearable art. The cloth is equipped with thin fabric ties at the corners, suggesting it may have served as a decorative apron (maekake) or a specialized wrap.
The design features a bold, large-scale spiderweb (kumo) shibori pattern. This effect is achieved by pleating and binding sections of the fabric before immersing it in indigo dye, resulting in dramatic, radiating white lines that explode from deep blue centers. The overlapping circular motifs create a sense of organic rhythm and visual vibration across the cream-colored cotton ground. The textile remains in very good condition, with the indigo pigments maintaining a rich, saturated hue.