A Beautifully Pieced Komebukuro or Rice Bag: Diagonal Piecing

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
8" x 7" x 7", 20 cm x 18 cm x 18 cm

This kind of piece-constructed, drawstring bag is often referred to as a komebukuro.  Komebukuro are bags that were used to bring token offerings of uncooked rice or beans to a temple or shrine festival, the piecing and patching often being thought-out and planned, for festive effect.

This is a particularly good example of a komebukuro for its very good design, its diagonal piecing, its old cottons and its overall good age. 

This handsome drawstring bag is sewn from about 12 pieces of old, hand loomed Japanese cottons.  Note the bottom of the bag and how there are four pieces joined to create a beautiful effect.

The bag is of a nice size, is lined and is in very good condition.  The drawstring seems original to the bag.

A really good komebukuro and one to consider adding to your collection--or even better it is a good one to acquire to start one.

Recommended.