Asa Hemp Flax Indigo Kasuri Ikat Kimono Fabric Piece from Japan 12" x 47" #ZP-32

Rare hemp/flax/ramie kimono fabric, also known as Asa in Japan. It's nothing like silk, it's stiff, crisp, a bit see-through, papery and bouncy, with no drape.  The kasuri design is done in the intricate true ikat weave. Dark navy indigo color with white or light gray or both; most likely indigo dyed. Both sides are just the same.  It's exciting to find this. Asa hemp fabric has been woven for centuries in Japan, is stronger than cotton, and was usually used for work kimonos, screens, mesh, utilitarian things. It's either ramie, flax or hemp, or a blend of one or more. We only have this one piece.  Age unknown, Japan.