Estimated to date from the Taisho to early Showa period, this textile is believed to have originally been a padded kimono, later remade into a cloth for laying down in the home.

The appeal of this piece lies in the contrasting textile compositions on its two sides. The former outer fabric features repeating small motifs with softly blurred outlines. The former lining combines plain fabric with butterfly-patterned cloth in a bold arrangement.

Orderly repetition meets irregular piecing. The contrast gives this textile its distinctive visual character.

Surviving stitches and changes acquired over time add a depth that pattern alone cannot create. Rather than an artwork made for decoration, it offers a beauty that emerged from construction for everyday use.

From a cloth to wear to a cloth used in the home, its apparent change of purpose suggests a practice of keeping fabric in use rather than readily discarding it.

Even if another cloth shares the same pattern, its piecing and aged character will differ. Looking again at the value of an existing textile, rather than continually consuming something new, makes this one-of-a-kind piece resonate with the principles of slow fashion.

Beyond its potential as material for remaking, consider keeping it close to admire its composition and texture.

Details

• Material: Cotton
• Estimated period: Taisho–early Showa
• History: Believed to have been remade from a padded kimono into a cloth for laying down in the home
• Padding and lining remain attached

Image 01 shows the former kimono outer-fabric side; image 02 shows the former lining side.

Measurements

Approximately 97 × 92 cm / 38.2 × 36.2 in.
Please allow for minor measurement variations.

Condition

Missing stitches have left some seams open, exposing the padding. Fraying along fabric edges and other age-related damage are also present.

The textile will be folded and compressed for shipping, which may result in creasing.

Please order only if you are comfortable with the characteristics and condition of antique textiles.

We have washed this piece twice. An odor characteristic of old textiles remains. Under the stated terms for this item, damage or the return of odors following washing or wear after purchase is not covered by refunds or exchanges. Please consider these characteristics carefully before ordering.

For questions about sizing, returns, and customs, please visit our FAQ.

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