Early 20th Century Japanese Woven Asa Double Ikat Summer Usumono Kimono Provenance

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A “Natsu No Kimono” (summer kimono) also called “Usumono" (thin clothes) dated from early 20th century Taisho Period. This well-preserved … Read more A “Natsu No Kimono” (summer kimono) also called “Usumono" (thin clothes) dated from early 20th century Taisho Period. This well-preserved garment was tailored from a woven indigo blue fabric with fine double ikat pattern of chain-linked diamonds. The thin fabric was a type of fine Asa fiber (hemp) that is almost see-through against the light, allowing great ventilation in hot summer days. On the indigo background, the white ikat dye points, dots like, form a wonderful geometrical repetition. The double ikat (both warp and weft) effect gives it a slightly blurred effect. The thin fabric was unlined and in fine condition free of odor or noticeable stains or discoloration.
Provenance: From the Personal Collection of Dr. Robert Jacobsen (1944-2021). The Curator of Asian Art in Minneapolis Insitute of Art from (1976-2010). It was loaned to Minneapolis Institute of Art, L.87.85.2, 1987.. for an exhibition. The loan document and a photograph of the installation of this very garment is included as shown.
Ikat weaving was originated in Southeast Asia and spread to Japan Mainland in the 17th century via Okinawa (14th century). The cotton production accelerated the development of the textile industry on a much larger scale by then in the Edo period when Kasuri weaving became very popular among the general population. See less