【History】
In Keichō 15 (1610), the Osakai family, retainers of the Owari domain, began producing flags and banners for the domain. At that time, dyers (konya) who manufactured kimono and other textiles for the Owari domain established the dyeing technique that evolved into Kuromontsuki Zome.
Originally, a technique called “Mon Nori Fuse” was used, but between 1830 and 1843, a Kuromontsuki dyer named Bunsuke developed the “Mon Katagami Itajime” technique, which used metal screens to create precise family crests (kamon). By the Meiji period, the method had largely evolved into the techniques used today.

【Characteristics】
The most distinctive feature of Nagoya Kuromontsuki Zome is its deep, dignified black color. In traditional Japanese formal wear, the blacker the black, the higher the quality and value, and artisans have long pursued the ultimate black.
In particular, the black of Nagoya Kuromontsuki Zome is sometimes called “Gobai Kuro” (fivefold black). The fabric is dyed repeatedly using several times the concentration of ordinary black dye, creating a deep black with subtle shifts, appearing bluish or reddish depending on the light. Additionally, by raising the dye temperature and allowing time for absorption, a durable, long-lasting black is achieved.

Techniques for Dyeing Family Crests (Kamon)
Shinsen (浸染 / immersion dyeing): Using a stencil of the family crest, the entire fabric is immersed in dye, leaving the crest white. This produces a highly durable black.
Hikizome (引染 / brush dyeing): Dye is applied to the fabric with a brush, and paste is placed along the crest’s outline so that the crest is finished by hand in white.
The striking contrast between the deep black and the crisp white family crest symbolizes the beauty and formality of Kuromontsuki Zome.

Today, it is used in garments such as black formal kimono for weddings (kurotomesode) and mourning attire, carefully preserved as a traditional craft that continues to convey Japan’s culture of respect and etiquette.