A Good-Sized and Lavishly Patched Mosquito Net: Three Panels, Overdyed

early twentieth century
76" x 38", 193 cm x 96.5 cm

This is a beautifully assembled and patched hemp or ramie mesh kaya or traditional mosquito netting.  The cloth is an open weave and is quite translucent.

These three panels, hand stitched to one another were taken from a larger piece which would have been composed as a tent. The tent would have been suspended from the ceiling of a room and would have enclosed a bed or beds

The green color is rich and vibrant and it is almost assuredly due to the use of synthetic dye. It is interesting to note that this kaya was no doubt overdyed in a green color: the color of the patches attest to this.

However the profusion of almost twenty patches and their placement all over the area of this kaya make this a wonderful textile to behold and one that will no doubt give a great deal of pleasure over time.  It looks especially good back-lit as the rhythm of its patches and seams is most noticeable.

There are some very obvious, fairly large holes and some loose yarns on this kaya, but none of its flaws detracts from its beauty.

Recommended.