A Length of Patched and Mended Kaya: Hemp Mosquito Netting

early twentieth century
74" x 12 1/4", 188 cm x 31 cm

This is a length of woven hemp mesh that has been dyed a dull green color: the wiry yarns of the hemp fiber often drink in dye in an uneven way which makes for a lovely color overall.

This length is a panel taken from a mosquito net--tents of mosquito netting were found hanging around and enclosing beds in all houses all over Japan, not just to protect from the hoards of mosquitos in that humid country's summer but also, in winter, to aid in capturing a bit of ambient warmth as one laid in their futon.

This length is particularly notable for its marvelous mending.

We see two large patches;  on one of them there is a good amount of vertical mending and a nice block of tight stitching. 

Rich in hand work and very much a part of Japan's past, this length of bast fiber kaya or mosquito netting is an excellent example of mending and of the Japanese credo of mottainai, which is a call not to waste. Please note some stains to the cloth.

Recommended.