A Cotton Boro Panel: Vestige of Sashiko Stitching

ca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century
72" x 13 1/2", 183 cm x 34 cm

This is an interesting, long boro cloth.  The base is indigo dyed cotton--at the top of the length is the vestige of a sashiko stitched "X" shape, which certainly adds interest to this otherwise subtle length of cloth.  The sashiko stitching is abraded from use over time and much of the actual white cotton stitching is missing.

As well, the portion of the length that serves as the base to this sashiko stitched panel is layered an unstitched, so the "backing" is not connected to the facing, as it were.

Likewise, the bottom portion of the cloth is folded up over itself and is stitched closed.

The cloth shows some wear and discoloration which is expected in old boro cottons such as this one.

Unusual, striking and lovely.