A Pair of Sashiko Stitched Hand Guards: Black Cotton

early to mid twentieth century
each, approximately: 9 1/4" x 5", 23.5 cm x 12.7 cm

These densely sashiko stitched pieces were used as a kind of hand guard, called tekko, to protect the hands and wrists from abrasions, etc. during hard, outdoor work and/ or while walking in the forest.

Each of the pair is hand stitched of faded, black cotton that has now taken on a kind of slate color or tone.

There are dense blocks of white cotton sashiko stitching on each of them, both on what would be the back of the hand as well as what would be on the underside of the hand. These areas are abraded from wear.

As well each of the tekko bears the name of the owner which is done in chain stitch. Each also has an indigo dyed cotton cord or tie that would be wrapped around the wrist to secure the guard around the wrist.

These are wonderful, everyday work gear from rural Japan and a time long gone.

Recommended.