A 19th Century Cotton and Silk FlossTemari: A Gift Ball

ca. mid to late nineteenth century
2 1/2", 6.5 cm diameter

Temari, literally “hand ball,” are gifts made for children. Temari were originally made from left over yarn or string, both cotton and silk floss were used for the external decoration.

A ball was created from wound threads.  Sometimes a written wish for the child was placed at the center of the ball, or other times some rice grains or a bell were the center of the ball, placed there to create a rattling or jingling noise, depending, however this temari does not rattle.

It is an old temari, and old temari are very difficult to find these days.  This one is made from a core of wound cotton yarns.  The surface is an intricate and beautiful lacing of geometric forms done in botanically dyed silk floss, the floss being a bit worn from age and use.

A marvelous old temari, something extremely hard to find and very collectible.

Very recommended.