TEXTILES
Japan
Futonji (futon cover)
Plain weave; Resist dyed, paste resist (tsutsugaki)
Cotton; Vegetable dye (indigo); Tsutsugaki printing
59 x 49 3/4 in. (149.8 x 126.4 cm) overall
Frances and Thomas Blakemore Collection
TC 96.2-184

Shochikubai, the pine, bamboo, and plum motifs, called East Asia’s three companions of the deep cold, decorate the corners of this piece and symbolize fidelity and strength. The butterfly (cho) crest in the center was enjoyed for its elegance. In feudal times, upstart warriors often claimed it as their first family crest as it symbolized the opposite of the warrior's difficult life. -- Researched by Elisa Law, Spring 2013.