A Pair of Zokin: Layered and Recycled

ca. mid twentieth century
each, approximately: 11" x 8", 28 cm x 20 cm

A zokin is a traditional Japanese dust cloth or cleaning rag; it is usually made from old pieces of cloth and it is usually layered and stitched for durability.   Along with diapers, zokin are among the traditional household textiles that represent the end of the line where the repurposing or recycling of cloth is concerned.

This pair of zokin is really lovely--each of the pair is quite boro and was used hard.  This wear adds artfulness and character to each of the zokin, each of which is stitched from layers of cotton.