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 Chōjū-Giga (Scrolls of Frolicking Animals), Japan's national treasure thought to have been drawn in the 12th century, and is best known for lively anthropomorphic animals playfully engaging in various activities.
The picture depicts the rabbit and frog chasing the monkey and the frogs and the rabbit cheerfully playing sumo.
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.