Nara Sarashi (Nara Bleached Cloth)
Nara Sarashi
The finest hemp comes from Nanto (Nara). Although many varieties are produced in neighboring provinces, because it dyes well, does not cling to the body when worn, and repels sweat, it is prized in the world as Nara Sarashi.
The 'Kiwame' (Superior) lacquer seal is the inspection seal applied when the cloth is in its raw, unbleached state (kibira). The inspection seal applied after bleaching is a red seal that reads 'Nanto Gofuku, width 1 shaku 1 sun, length 6 jo 7 shaku 5 sun.' After taking a 4-shaku cut, 5 jo 4 shaku remain.
Kizu Sarashi is the same as Nara. However, when dyed, the fabric is soft, and the wearing comfort is not as pleasant as Nara because it lacks the crisp texture.
* 'Does not cling to the body' is thought to mean that it does not stick to the skin.
* The 'Kiwame' lacquer seal was a seal made of lacquer, used during the Edo period to certify product inspections on fabrics like Nara Sarashi; lacquer was used so that it would not fade for a long time.
* 'Kibira' refers to cloth woven from ramie fibers in a plain weave that has not yet been bleached.
* 'Shiyoritsuki' is thought to refer to the crisp, stiff texture of the fabric.
a red seal that reads 'Nanto Gofuku, width 1 shaku 1 sun, length 6 jo 7 shaku 5 sun.'
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Author's Note: I will update this as needed when I can decipher new characters or notice typos or misreadings. For details, please read the 'About Me / Disclaimer' page.📖