THE MEANINGS WOVEN IN
市松
ichimatsu
A wish for things that keep growing, square by square.
Checkerboard
01
Where it comes from
Two kinds of squares take turns, and the pattern has no natural edge; it can be extended without end. It was long known as ishidatami, stone paving, and later took the name ichimatsu, said to come from a kabuki actor who wore it on stage. People have seen in its endless spread a wish for prosperity that keeps growing, and for a family line that continues.
02
On the cloth
On kimono and obi, ichimatsu may be bold squares in two colors, or small ones that hide another pattern inside each. Here it is a small coaster in pink, orange, and purple, the squares close enough to read as a soft check.
03
To give
Ichimatsu suits a new business, a new home, or a family that is growing. It is also an easy pattern to give to someone who likes clean, simple lines.
A word to keep
石畳
ishidatami
Stone paving. An older name for this checkered pattern, from the look of a stone-laid path.
