A Beautifully Patched and Sashiko Stitched Small Mat or Zokin: Textured

mid twentieth century
12 1/2" x 17 1/4", 31.5 cm x 43.5 cm

This roughly textured, richly stitched layered and patched cloth, although large in size, may have been intended to be a zokin or a traditional Japanese dust cloth.

It is clearly made from recycled cottons as it shows repairs embedded under the lattice work of white sashiko stitching. This aspect of the cloth gives this small, finished piece its charm and character.

This lovely old cloth is wonderfully rustic--clearly hand made--and rich in texture, age and soul.