furoshiki cloth, Japan, late Meiji (circa 1910), cm 119x126. Furoshiki were (and still are to some extent) wrapping cloths used when carrying small personal belongings, or to eventually wrap a gift to be presented. They usually display a large family crest (komon) in the centre on a plain ground. The present lot has such an arrangement with a bold pawlonia motif on a lovely navy ground, plus two Kanji characters we cannot read at opposite corners. Four joined panels of hand spun, hand woven cotton, dyed in the tsutsugaki technique. Condition is good, with only two small holes and negligible staining and fading due to use. Great quality of indigo dye. Bold and lovely item.