This exquisite textile originates from Japan’s early Showa period (1930–1940) and is a scholarly example of the geometric precision achieved through pre-war tie-dyeing techniques. Measuring 14.5 inches by 44 inches (37 cm x 112 cm), the panel is crafted from a high-quality silk that is noticeably lighter in weight than contemporary or late vintage varieties, a characteristic often found in older shibori pieces. The silk remains in very good condition, retaining a striking luminosity and an excellent drape that speaks to its premium origin.

The visual narrative is set against a deep, regal purple ground, providing a sophisticated substrate for a repeating asa-no-ha (hemp leaf) pattern. This rhythmic, star-like geometric design is rendered in crisp white and a warm melon-pink shade. The pattern is executed using the intensive shibori process, where individual points of fabric are hand-bound to resist the dye, resulting in a three-dimensional, textured surface. In Japanese culture, the asa-no-ha motif traditionally symbolizes vigor and resilient growth; its presentation here in high-contrast tones reflects the refined yet bold aesthetic favored in the decade leading up to 1940.

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