A Sakiori Kotatsugake: Unbacked Rag Woven Hearth Cover

mid twentieth century
54" x 51", 137 cm x 129.5 cm

This hand woven, blanket-weight textile is woven from cotton yarns torn into narrow strips from rags. In Japan rag weaving is referred to as sakiori. 

This is a kotatsugake which is a cloth to be draped over a heated table or kotatsu. A draped, heavy cloth such as this traps the heat so a family who gathers near the hearth and places their legs under the cloth stays warm. 

This was undoubtedly was woven by a member of the family who used it--as can easily be seen the color and pattern is simple and attractive. Pale blue and red predominate in the color scheme as weft yarn and blue, white and red cotton yarns are used as warp.

Please note that when held against the light there are some small areas of loss that are present but this is only noticeable when back lit. When seen as presented here these small areas are almost impossible to see.

This kotatsugake can be used as a throw, a blanket or an area rug. 

Recommended.