This is a piece of Japanese vintage fabric called tsutsugaki (def:rice paste resist free-style drawn by hand, with tube). The piece was probably a futonji (mattress cover) top and is made from 4 panels, hand-sewn together; total measurements are: 59.5" X 57"; Panels are approximately 15" X 57". Made from late 1800's to early 1900's (Late Edo period to Meiji period);

Colors: Dark indigo blue, blue,light blue and off-whites;

This piece has a large family crest in top-center as well as other motifs (pertain to traditional family treasure images)

CONDITION: Usually, pieces of tsutsugaki this old have more holes or stains, but this one has only 6 small areas where the paste got onto the fabric when this was first made, as well as 2 pin-sized holes and 1 hole which is 1/16" diameter (see closeups at bottom set of pictures, this page). Fabric itself is otherwise in exceptional condition for its age.

Recommended for collectors, Japanese textile historians and artists/decorators.