Each bookstore will act as a concierge, recommending "must-read books" to FASHION HEADLINE readers. Every Thursday, each branch of the art bookshop "NADiff" will introduce a recommended book. This time, we'll be introducing the Shibuya branch, NADiff modern (Bunkamura, 2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo).

■ "Sarasa: The Flower Fabric of Life" by Sato Tomomi

Sarasa, a patterned dyeing technique originating in India, is characterized by its vibrant colors, such as madder and indigo, created through advanced dyeing techniques. Its long history has led to the creation of original, vibrant patterns depicting Hindu gods, flowers, birds, and animals, making it the envy of other countries.

During the Age of Discovery from the 16th to 17th centuries, Indian chintz was traded across the seas. Its major influence was driven by the East India Companies of the Netherlands, Britain, France, and other countries. The Dutch East India Company, in particular, marketed its products to each of its trading partners and created designs tailored to each country's tastes, sparking the worldwide popularity of chintz.
This book unravels the history of chintz from around the world, from European chintz to Javanese chintz and even Japanese chintz, as each developed and refined in its own unique way, while thoroughly showcasing its appeal with abundant illustrations.
In addition, Bunkamura The Museum is hosting the "Toile de Jouy: Western Chintz" exhibition, which began on June 14th and is the first comprehensive introduction in Japan to the world of Toile de Jouy, the Western chintz created by German printing engineer Christoph Philipp Oberkampf.
【Book Information】
"Sarasa: The Flower Fabric of Life"
Author: Sato Tomomi
Publisher: Tankosha
Softcover / 160 pages / A5 size
Published: March 2016
Price: 2,484 yen (tax included)

【Exhibition Information】
"Western Sarasa: Toile de Jouy Exhibition"
Venue: Bunkamura The Museum
Address: 1st basement floor, 2-24-1 Dogenzaka, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo
Dates: June 14th - July 31st
Opening Hours: 10:00 - 19:00 (until 21:00 on Fridays and Saturdays, last admission 30 minutes before closing)
Admission: Adults 1,400 yen (groups 1,200 yen), University and High School Students 1,000 yen (groups 800 yen), Middle and Elementary School Students 700 yen (500 yen for groups) *Discounts available for those with a disability certificate. Please ask at the counter for details.