For the first time, some Tsutsugaki masterpieces from a private collection leave Japan to be presented at the Guimet Museum in Paris. This dying art is finally honored thanks to the Parisian Museum. The term may not be familiar with you, for Tsutsugaki is not well known. It is a textile dyeing technique combining the work of a drawer, an artisan and a dry cleaner. This exhibition reunites about thirty of these unique works that are shown for the first time outside Japan.

The Tsutsugaki, a traditional art
Favoring indigo, this popular art, reminiscent of engraving, was born during the Muromachi era, in the 16^th century. It is at the time of Edo that it reached its climax, between the 15^th and 17^th centuries. It is made of motives varying depending on the region. Dragons, turtles, flowers, symbolic settings form these true textile paintings so that they would bring luck to their owners. Favoring cotton, the craftsmen would fashion, through an elaborated technique, kimonos, futons and other sewing works. They were ordered for big events such as weddings and religious ceremonies. Now, it is at the Guimet Museum that you can discover them and be amazed by their beauty.

Exhibition “Tsutsugaki – Indigo textile from Japan”, from July 10 to October 7, 2013.
Open everyday except Tuesday, from 10 am to 6 pm.
Full rate: 8€ / Concessionary: 6€.

Bedspread (futon) mounted on screen
Details of Mount Fuji, hawk and eggplants,
New years, better dreams,
Japan, cotton canvas, tsutsugaki,
189,2x152,4cm
Photo: Yasuhiro Kobayashi, © DR

Guimet Museum
6, place d’Iéna
75016 Paris
France
Tel: +33 (0)1 56 52 53 00
Metro: Iena (line 9) or Pont de l’Alma (RER C).

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