ca. mid to late nineteenth century
8 1/2" x 8 1/2" x 8 1/2", 21.5 cm x 21.5 cm x 21.5 cm

This is a special komebukuro or rice bag.  It is sewn entirely from botanically dyed asa or hemp fabrics, 16 pieces in all, and most likely this piece dates to the mid nineteenth century.  It is rustic and gorgeous.  Komebukuro were used to carry rice grains or dried beans to Buddhist temple festivals, so they were fashioned from scraps arranged in playful patterns to impart a "festive" air.

Note the pale orange hemp pieces which are dyed in benibana or safflower; the grey katazome dyed small figured pattern known as komon and emblematic of the Edo Period, and the wonderful other kasuri, checked and indigo fragments of old hemp cloth.

This bag shows wear and some "ground in" dirt which was not able to be lifted from the fabric in a quick wash.  Note as well the small holes and abrasion to the surface, none of which detracts from its beauty.

The bag is lined in undyed hemp and has a braided, green cotton drawstring.

Very recommended for its age, soulfulness and beauty.