A Pair of Unused Rustic High Topped Tabi: Hand Spun Cotton and Sashiko Stitching

early to mid twentieth century
each one: 7 1/2" x 10 1/4" x 4 1/4", 19 cm x 26 cm x 11 cm

Tabi are the traditional, split-toe "socks" of Japan, and there are many variations of tabi, from this type--thick, heavy cotton used for work--to very elegant pairs of tabi that are worn when wearing formal dress.

This pair of tabi is made from beautiful, hand loomed, indigo dyed cotton. The pair is seemingly unused.

The entire front area of each of the tabi is densely sashiko stitched using cotton thread, the same color as the base cloth.  The heel areas of the tabi are likewise similarly stitched with a reinforced piece of cloth. The area between the toes is also reinforced.

The pair is rather high and when worn, each tabi would extend to about the ankle or higher. 

The soles are of a woven, thick and heavy bast fiber.

A beautifully hand made pair of rustic tabi, these are a wonderful resource for a sashiko stitcher or for someone who admires the traditional folk textiles of old Japan.  

Beautiful--and still quite wearable.