Tenugui are plain weave thin cotton cloths about 35" x 13" in size. They have been used for centuries in Japan for a variety of purposes, and many people use them as washcloths and headbands.
The design of this tenugui is by Utagawa Hiroshige, one of the great masters of the ukiyo-e who had a significant impact on the French Impressionists. One side of this tenugui shows a carp-shaped windsock which is displayed in spring to wish healthy growth of children. The other side depicts a field of iris which bloom around the same time.
The finish of this tenuqui is unique that all four sides are stitched. (Standard cotton fabric for tenugui is woven in 13" width so long sides are selvedges; cut sides are left unhemmed.)
Specifications
Who Makes it
Yamamoto Jin Shoten of Kyoto is a textile converter that has been in business since the 18th century. Combining tradition with modern taste they produce apparel and small textile goods. The tenugui are dyed in Osaka and sewn in Kyoto and Osaka.