A Length of Patched Hand Plied Hemp Kaya: Well-Used

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
84" x 12 1/4", 213.5 cm x 31 cm

This battered and boro length of rustic hand plied hemp kaya is well-used as can be seen by its overall condition--including a profusion of well-earned stains. Kaya is a woven mesh cloth that was used as mosquito netting.

The cloth is heavy in the hand and is somewhat springy due to the thick yarns that have been used so hard over time and have softened from age. The surface is abraded and faded and there is a hole or two that has escaped patching. There is a patch on both sides of this length whose color is a bit hard to describe since it falls directly between greenish and blueish.

The cloth with all its patina from age and wear is beautiful and it really sings when seen against strong light: back lighting creates a new mood where this length is concerned and it enhances its already rich look.

A beautiful, good-sized length of very old kaya.

Recommended.