This unusual and deeply personal uchishiki (temple cloth), dated to the 29th year of the Meiji period (1896), represents a poignant fusion of family devotion and textile artistry. Measuring as a horizontal panel, the cloth features a vibrant tortoise-shell (kikkou) pattern created through meticulous hexagonal patchwork, a design choice reminiscent of North American quilting traditions.

The textile is a living archive of a single household, constructed from various chirimen and kinsha silk fragments. Each hexagonal piece was sourced from the clothing of Chiyoko Nakagawa and her family members. In an act of spiritual dedication, Chiyoko assembled these intimate remnants to create a sacred offering for a Buddhist temple, intended to secure future happiness and protection for her lineage. The palette is a lively mosaic of indigo, madder red, and soft cream, featuring a range of traditional patterns including shibori and floral prints. Despite its age, the assembly remains in good condition, preserved as a testament to personal faith.

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