A Length of Tattered Boro Mosquito Netting: Beautiful Soft Color

$85.00 USD

late nineteenth, early twentieth century
82" x 12 1/2", 208.5 cm x 31.75 cm

This is a tattered and blotchily stained length of woven hemp mesh that has faded to a dull blue-green-blue tone.

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 piece is particularly notable for its marvelous, frayed mending which, when backlit, is especially effective. Please note the mottled stains over the entire piece, a hole at the top, and the lovely, well-worn patches which stud the surface of this length.

The length of bast fiber kaya is exemplary of part of Japan's past: it is an excellent example of mending and of the Japanese credo of mottainai, which is a call not to waste.  

This particular piece is shown here and it is the length hanging in the center of the three.

Recommended.

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A Length of Tattered Boro Mosquito Netting: Beautiful Soft Color