The Art of Japanese Textiles

Japanese weavers have created beautiful works of art for generations. The Nishijin district in Kyoto is famous for families of artisans who create some of the most beautiful textile works in Japan. The traditional art of weaving ("ori) in Japan dates back 1,000 years in the old capital of Japan, Kyoto.

Around the 6th century, Chinese introduced the loom to Japan. This introduction forever changed the way in which the rich, or noble class of Japan had their beautiful clothing created. It wasn't until the 15th century that the common people found themselves enjoying the beauty and creation of the kimono and obi.

There are many different types of textiles created by the Japanese weavers. Some of the fabrics used for these creations are "Sakizome" (yarn-dyed fabrics pronounced sah-key-zo-may); "Atozome" (piece-dyed fabrics pronounced ah-toe-zo-may) and "Some" (dying pronounced so-may), characterized by vivid, brilliant colors.

During Japan's tumultuous civil war, the Ohnin Civil War, most weavers fled Kyoto for the safety of others cities or townships. The Nishijin district held refuge for small number of remaining artisans and is currently home to the most admired and knowledgeable weaving families in Japan.

Although there have been many challenges faced by Japanese weavers over the centuries such as imported yarns and competing with inexpensive silks or craftsmanship, one of the greatest challenges to date is the decline in markets for high quality kimono and obi.

Please read this good book: "Textile Art of Japan" available on Amazon.

 

Content copyright © 2006-2010 by Melanie Shintaku. All rights reserved.
This content was written by Melanie Shintaku. If you wish to use this content in any manner, you need written permission.

 

For more information on Japan's history:

Tokugawa Lineage
Kublai Khan and Japan
Samurai Archives