A Length of Patched Cotton Kaya: Minimalist Boro Mosquito Netting

ca. early twentieth century
44" x 14", 113 cm x 35.5 cm

This length of patched, indigo dyed cotton gauze appears to be a deep green color: this is a natural, and often-seen, discoloration of indigo dyed cloth which sometimes turns this green color when exposed to the atmosphere of the interior of old homes.  Smoke and other ambient conditions dull the natural indigo blue and it becomes a less-bright greenish color.

This gauzy piece of cotton is hand stitched from two pieces and it was part of a kaya or a tent made from mosquito netting.  Aside from the rich color, the beauty of this piece comes from beautifully placed, five patches that are prominently hand stitched to this piece.

Lovely in color and in design, this short length of cloth is very attractive in its unselfconscious way.