A Zokin or Dustrag: Persimmon Flower Design

early twentieth century
6 1/2" x 12 1/4", 16.5 cm x 31 cm

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

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

The sashiko stitching is done in thick, white thread and it is exuberantly stitched in the persimmon flower pattern which is a bit degraded and worn in areas.

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.