The Shoso-in Treasure
y Clamp-resist Dyeing z
This woodblock-resist dyeing method was
invented in Tang-dynasty China to
masproduce large multi-colored patterns.
This dyeing technique greatly contributed
to the spread of the large and ornate motif.
The Shoso-in Repository also contains
many clamp-resist-dyed fabrics.
This is the example of clamp-resist-dyed
screen panel with symmetrical patterns
of deer under a tree. Among the personal
possesions of Emperor Shomu donated to the
Todai-ji Temple by Empress Komyo in 756,
this is a typical specimen of the Japanese
interpretation of an Occidental motif of
sacred animals under a tree.
To other treasures
Shoso-in Repository