Inspired by the East Pagoda of the Yakushi Temple. A temple shrouded in prayer to ward off fire, Nara’s Yakushi Temple features the "suien" or "water flame" together with Hiten celestial beings. This design aims to incorporate both history and mystique. 

Designs

The designs of these tenugui are all completely original and created by young artists who live in Nara, who love Nara, and know the historical culture of Nara. Inspired by Nara’s nature, historical elements, and tradition, they provide a vivid description of 1300 years of Nara culture and history, with a modern and fashionable approach. 

Materials

The fabric used for these tenugui is the highest quality of premium Japanese cotton. Users will immediately notice the superb absorption and quick drying qualities, in addition to the softness and comfort of the fabric. 

Stencils

The technique used for dyeing these tenugui is a traditional Japanese stencil dyeing method known as Ise Katagami. A few sheets of durable Japanese Washi paper are bound together and persimmon tannin is then applied. Experienced craftsmen carve out the design, bit by bit, with a chisel. When the carving is ready, a thin mesh of silk, called “Sha”, is applied to the surface before the lacquer is applied. Each procedure requires tremendous concentration and time-honored techniques applied by experienced craftsmen. 

Dyeing

The traditional Japanese method used for dyeing these tenugui is called “Chusen”. Chusen dyeing is renowned for its delicate colour graduation and its double-sided colouration. Each part of the process is done by hand by a specialised craftsman. The nature of the dye used to make thee tenugui can mean that the colours produced may vary, depending on the temperature and humidity on that day. As these tenugui are all dyed by hand, some minor variations in colour may result.