KAMAWANU Chusen Hand Towel (Animal Figurines/Auspicious Pattern - Cat Extravaganza) Product Number 6002234

Country of origin: Made in Japan / Material: 100% cotton / Pure fabric / *Due to hand-dyeing, color fading may occur. *Color transfer may occur when wet. *Do not leave wet. *When washing, please hand wash separately from other items. Size: Approximately 33cm x 90cm / *Please note that the color of the product may vary slightly depending on your PC environment. The meaning behind the design: Since ancient times, cats have been cherished as symbols of "protection against evil and misfortune" because of their eyes that shine sharply even in the dark, powerfully driving away evil spirits and disasters. Also, like the Maneki-neko (beckoning cat) with its paws beckoning for good fortune, they are considered very auspicious animals that bring "business prosperity" and "a constant stream of customers," attracting wonderful connections with people and money one after another. Furthermore, due to their light and supple bodies and the legend that they possess strong vitality, they also embody deep wishes for "good health and longevity" and "safety in the home," so that the whole family can live healthy lives free from illness. This design, woven by carefree and adorable cats, will bring many smiles to the everyday lives of those who hold it, and gently invite warm happiness and great fortune into every corner of their lives. Kamawanu's tenugui (hand towels) are made with Sōri (textile) fabric. Compared to the Tokuoka fabric for illustrated tenugui, it has a coarser weave and is thicker. As a result, it has high absorbency and breathability, making it a practical tenugui. The appeal of Sōri fabric is that it gains character with use. There are two main types of tenugui fabrics: "Bun" and "Oka." Bun fabric is woven with thicker 20-count yarn, while Oka fabric is woven with thinner 30-count yarn. Because Oka fabric is made with thinner yarn, it has a finer weave, allowing for intricate patterns, gradients, and other detailed designs. Bun fabric, being made with thicker yarn, has a coarser weave compared to Oka fabric. However, it is more breathable and absorbent, making it suitable for use as a handkerchief or dishcloth. While its coarser weave means it can't express finer details as well as Oka fabric, it has the advantage of allowing you to appreciate the texture of the fabric. This is a lucky spring-themed tenugui (hand towel) featuring the word "kamawanu." The riddle combines a sickle (kama) + a circle (ring) + "nu" to spell out "kamawanu." A riddle is a puzzle in which you have to guess the word hidden in letters or pictures. "Kamawanu" means "I don't care" or "I don't care," expressing the spirit of Edo townspeople who would selflessly help the weak. Enjoy these various classic patterns imbued with such meaning.