ca. mid twentieth century
65" x 60", 165 cm x 152.5 cm

This wonderfully pieced and expertly finished indigo dyed cotton boro "throw" is actually a kotatsugake or a cloth used under a kotatsugake, which is a kind of blanket used to cover a brazier which provided warmth in the old style Japanese home.

This throw is very neatly done with a beautiful arrangement of cloth pieces.  It is pieced and hand sewn; the edges are finished using a sewing machine.  The indigo tones here are all beautiful and variegated--even though we suspect this piece was made in the middle of last century, it is clear that the cloth used to create this home accessory is much older, probably by at least fifty years. On the detail photos, note the two small holes, about 1/2" each, otherwise the piece is in great shape.

Note, as well, the backing, which is done in an assortment of bold plaids of hand loomed cotton cloth; this kind of large plaid was woven throughout Japan in the initial phase of the twentieth century so its appearance here recalls this period.

A great thing to own and recommended.