RYUKYU BINGATA

Do you know 'Ryukyu Bingata' ?
'Bingata' is Okinawan traditional fabric dyeing.


'Ryukyu Bingata' was first created around the 15C. Various techniques were introduced through the trading done with Southeast Asia, it developed into a traditional art work representing the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The picture above is Kimono. I loved this beautiful color from the moment one clap eyes on it.



Use of Bingata; Bingata is made for formal wear, everyday attire, boy's dance costumes for 'Crown Ship Dance' performed to entertain investiture envoys from China, the best kimono of ordinary people allowed to wear only on a special occasion, costumes for festivals for the God as well as an important tribute for China to obtain foreign currency because Ryukyu lacked in resources.



Various materials such as cotton, China grass, bashofu(woven from Japanese fiber bananas), and silk, are used for dyeing according to rank and use.

Base colors for Bingata are believed to be about 20 colors: white, yellow, light blue, flower color, green, purple, deep indigo, indigo blue, and dyed in different colors, etc.    



Pigments are mainly used in paintings and gave a three-dimensional appearance to patterns by laying pigments on top of dye and then shading patterns other than the vermilion part.
See these beautiful fabrics! They handdyed by Bingata Craftsman with a precious natural dye.



At the shop 'Syuri Ryusen' in Shuri,Naha-city, there are various original Bingata items: Obi Belt, Kimono, Tapestry, Centerpeace.
We are greeted by a spectacular array of colorful items as soon as we enter the shop.

 From many things, a thing to like is found!

I hope you can get a sense of the history and culture of the old capital Shuri.Actually, I spent a special time in the shop, I was feeling old Okinawa: Ryukyu dynasty.
Why don't you check it out ?     
SHURI RYUSENUR   URL http://www.shuri-ryusen.com/

Have a great time!

Shizuka.