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 Kuniyoshi, one of the last great masters of ukiyo-e. It depicts Asahina, a legendary strongman in the 12th century visiting an island of little people and marveling at their daimyo gyoretsu (formal procession of feudal lord).
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.