A Hank of Braided Rope: Recycled Cotton

early to mid twentieth century
as shown: 12" x 7" x 2", 30.5 cm x 18 cm x 5 cm

This hank of rope is hand braided from innumerable scraps of cotton cloth.

Old, ragged clothing and bedding, or rags purchased from a rag merchant, are the source of this hand made rope which was used for everyday tasks in old Japan, from and hauling goods to any number of other jobs that require binding or fastening.

The rope shows the colors of commercially produced cottons, the scraps of which were used to braid this length.

It is fascinating to look at the variety of cottons that comprise this rope as the variegated colors in the range of reds and oranges are really charming--and they reflect the reality of life in mid twentieth century rural Japan.

Wonderful.  Collectible.  And getting harder and harder to find.

Recommended.