A Pair of Beautifully Sashiko Stitched Tabi Covers: Patina from Wear

early to mid twentieth century
4" x 8 1/2", 10 cm x 21.5 cm

This is a really beautiful pair of indigo dyed cotton, sashiko stitched foot or tabi covers.

Accessories like these would be worn by working people in old Japan: what also may be worn in addition to these would be other body-guarding garments like leg protectors, hand protectors and head coverings. The extremities of the worker's body were often covered by multiple accessories versus one, protective suit.

The base cloth is a deeply colored indigo cotton and the stitching is done in white cotton thread. On the body of each of the tabi covers is shown a running stitch in two directions and a yabane or arrow feather stitch. The heel guard, of a slightly lighter blue cotton, shows a stepped pattern.

Each of the two pieces is outfitted with a pair of very long ties.

A wonderful pair, beautifully realized, and with a rich variety of stitching.

Recommended.