Bingata
Bingata ( Okinawan :紅 型 ) refers to traditional dyed fabrics from Okinawa . The fabrics are usually kept in lively colors and use different patterns that often show natural elements such as water, flowers or fish.
Bingata dates from the time of the Ryūkyū Kingdom (14th century) and is said to have developed from a combination of Indian, Chinese and Javanese dyeing processes. Bingata clothing has long been considered a luxury item or was reserved for the ruling families. Certain patterns were only allowed to be used for certain clients, and more intensely colored fabrics were more expensive. The class difference could thus be clearly shown. The production of bingata fabrics was previously only allowed to three families.
See also
Web links
- Bingata Kijimuna Explanations on the Bingata dyeing technique
- Bingata Wonder Okinawa.
- Ryukyuan textiles page with different sample images