KAMAWANU Tenugui - Guardian Snake
手ぬぐい 見守りへび
£20.00 per item
A hand-dyed tenugui crafted in Tokyo, with an illustration of a clay bell in the shape of a white snake.
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A tenugui is a light cotton hand towel that has a wide range of uses, from wrapping books and lunch boxes in day-to-day life, to gift wrapping, to simply wiping hands after washing.
This tenugui was produced in Tokyo using a specialized hand dyeing technique, chusen. It is a technique that dyes not only the surface of the fabric but also penetrates the material so the pattern can be seen when the cloth is reversed. The making process begins with stencils that provide an outline of the pattern for glue. Then, an additional glue-like mixture is applied to create a wall that separates areas of individual colour so that the different dyes can be carefully poured onto each section directly.
The chusen dyeing technique allows the fabric to remain soft, highly absorbent, and to dry quickly. The dyed colours change over time and the tenugui becomes softer after every wash.
This tenugui has a depiction of a dorei (historical clay bells crafted since the Jōmon period between c.14,000 and 300 BC as talismans) in the form of a white snake. As clay bells ward off evil spirits and white snakes are considered messengers of God, this tenugui is created to be a good luck charm. Additionally, it celebrates the animal zodiac for 2025, the snake.
Wash separately from other clothing for the first few washes.
Avoid using detergent with bleach.
Handwash or use handwash setting on washing machine.
After washing, leave to dry completely.
Leaving the product soaked in water for prolonged periods can cause the colour to fade.
Size: 33x90cm
Material : 100% cotton
Kantō
The Kantō region is densely populated and home to a third of the country's population. It is centred around the nation's vibrant capital – Tokyo, formerly known as Edo, which has been the cultural, economic and political heart of Japan for centuries. Outside this megacity, there are mountains, onsen and ski resorts, magnificent temple complexes and excellent surfing opportunities within easy reach.
