Featured Collection Object
by Lee Talbot, Associate Curator, Eastern Hemisphere Textiles
Textile recycling has deep roots in Japan. The concept of mottainai—the sense of regret when something useful is wasted—traces its origins to ancient Buddhist philosophy, but remains strong in the Japanese consciousness today. Traditionally, farmers, fishermen, lumberjacks, and other workers wore garments made of sakiori—fabric woven from old, shredded clothing and other discarded textiles. This jacket is made with asa (hemp) warps and wefts of cotton strips cut from worn-out, indigo-dyed kimono and other rags. Originally prized for their warmth and durability, sakiori garments are appreciated today for their skillful transformation of humble materials into objects of rustic beauty.
On view at The Textile Museum February 4, 2011 through January 8, 2012
Farmer's coat, Japan, Meiji period, late 19th century. Hemp warp and cotton weft. The Textile Museum 1986.12.1. Gift of Gloria Granz Gonick.