A Beautifully Sashiko Stitched Narrow Bag: Stunning Detail

early twentieth century
18 1/2" x 6", 47 cm x 15 cm

It is always a pleasure to present good quality, sashiko stitched items on this webshop.  

This hand stitched bag is just beautifully done, with its regular, finely-done sashiko stitching arranged in very neat rows and building a very attractive visual motif: the classic asanoha or hemp leaf pattern covers more than one-half this bag, its zigzag border suggests another, traditional Japanese design motif which is matsukawa bishi or the pine bark pattern.  Although this configuration of the two motifs is not unusual, what is wonderful is the skill used in creating it.  The stitching, as can be seen by looking at the accompanying photographs, is almost perfect.

The bag has been used hard and the surface patina to the indigo dyed cotton shows this by its marks of wear.  The bag is lined in white, hand woven cotton.  A rather long, hemp cord is attached to the side of the bag.

This is beautiful, and it is a small piece of old Japan.

Recommended.