An Eccentrlcally Sashiko Stitched Layered Kotatsugake: Recycled Kimono

mid twentieth century
67 1/2" x 67 1/2", 171.5 cm x 171.5 cm

This pieced  and wonderfully sashiko stitched cotton textile is large, thick with about three layers of cotton, and is stitched from mid-twentieth century power loomed cottons that were taken from kimono or jackets.  

It is a handsome example of Japanese traditional re-purposing of existing material, and, as this piece dates to around the mid-20th century, it is interesting to note that re-purposing of cloth was a practice that continued until fairly recently.

The large, layered cloth was used  as a cover for a kotatsu, a traditional, heated table that would be covered in blankets under which members of a family would gather to share warmth.  Electric kotatsugake, or kotatsu covers, are still used to this day in many Japanese homes.

This kotatsugake is hand stitched from repurposed cottons: the proper back and the proper front of this graphically-appealing kotatsugake are quite different from one another in tone and presentation.

Note the many detail photos here that show the erratic functionality of the white sashiko stitching that quilt together the layers of the cloth used to create this wonderfully attractive hearth cover.

The condition of this kotatsugake is seemingly almost unused and because of its weight it can be used as an area rug or a throw--but of course it can be displayed on the wall as art.

Just wonderful.

Recommended.

A beautiful cloth from old Japan: recommended.