A Small Layered Zokin: Stitched Traditional Dustrag

early to mid twentieth century
6 3/4" x 10 1/2", 17 cm x 26 cm

A zokin is a traditional Japanese dustrag which is hand stitched using repurporsed cloth.  Zokin were often made in groups, so very often you will find batches of similar types coming from one home.

This  zokin is stitched from several layers of dark toned striped cotton which seems to have been recycled from an old, cotton kimono. 

The sashiko stitching is done in white thread and it is stitched in two directions, in short "stabs," and there is a curious inclusion of a diagonally-oriented red thread which provides subtle visual interest.

This is a very handsome old, traditional dust rag with the bonus of showing a traditional sashiko stitching technique which is done is a rustic and beautiful manner.