This is beautiful and rare 19th century indigo dyed noren, or door curtain, made from three panels of handwoven Japanese fabric. The noren was created by a process called tsutsugaki whereby rice paste is applied through a piping bag with a copper tip known as a tsutsu before dying. This paste needs to be applied and reapplied throughout the dyeing process in order to make the final design. This noren was also over dyed with a yellow dye in order to create a vivid green color. The makeup of the fabric is hand woven cotton and the threads have been hand spun. The color is vibrant and worn to a beautiful hue. The symbol of plum blossoms, bamboo and pine are known as the three friends of winter and these auspicious symbols are associated with the new year. 35 x 41 inches. Due to its age and use there are small holes and considerable discoloration, but still an exceptionally rare textile. The back of the textile has been reinforced with new gray fabric. This was done tastefully and it stabilizes the original light cotton noren.