A Good Sized Sashiko Stitched Bag: Indigo Dyed Cotton

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
29" x 11 1/2", 74 cm x 29 cm

This straightforward, indigo dyed cotton utilitarian bag is of a type that was often seen in Japan and its function was various: some say it was used to carry tools, but it seems likely that the rectangular format of the bag had broader applications.

The front shows two chainstitched Chinese characters or kanji rendered in white thread. The back shows another kanji within an L-shaped design which often signifies a business name.

There is a discreet mend to the bottom corner of the piece, shown here in the detail photos that accompany this post.

The bag is in quite good, used condition and still has so many uses today.

A wonderfully designed and executed object that calls up memories of everyday life in old Japan.