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Japanese Antique "BORO" Edo period 1800s-1860s / Rag Abstract Art Wabi-Sabi

$2,800

£2,110.96

€2,457.22

CA$3,939.17

A$3,962.23

CHF 2,308.68

MX$48,273.95

NOK 26,551.33

SEK 27,236.34

DKK 18,366.09

About the Item

This is an old Japanese BORO textile, dating back to the Edo period (1800s–1860s). It is a rare cloth that has survived through a long span of time. The interplay of indigo and natural white—layered, patched, and worn through generations—is far more than a record of mending; it is a testament to how traces of daily life can transform into beauty. BORO represents a uniquely Japanese textile culture. BORO (rag cloth) refers to textiles that were repeatedly patched, stitched, and reinforced at a time when fabric was precious. Rather than discarding worn material, people repaired it with care—layering, sewing, and reusing it in daily life. This process embodies a deep respect for materials and the wisdom of a modest way of living. Today, the spontaneous visual harmony found in BORO is highly valued and reinterpreted around the world in art and design fields. This piece is remarkably large, measuring approximately 1620 mm × 1760 mm, and what is truly astonishing is its thickness—about 50 mm. In over twenty years as a buyer, I have never encountered a BORO of such substantial volume. This was originally used as a futon, with layers of cloth built up over time to survive harsh winters. Countless fabric fragments are stitched together, forming dimensional shadows and a presence so strong it draws the eye inward. The overall composition resembles an abstract painting. Deep indigo, light indigo, and natural cotton patches form an improvisational yet mysteriously cohesive rhythm. Simply hanging it on a wall transforms the atmosphere of the room. As an art piece, it stands out exceptionally and is highly recommended for collectors of textile art, folk craft, and those who appreciate wabi-sabi aesthetics. Tears, fraying threads, worn edges, and repeated repair marks are not flaws—they are a living record of time. They embody the wabi-sabi spirit, showing that beauty does not vanish even as materials age and decay. It has been washed and is ready for use. The piece will be folded and safely shipped from Japan. Folded size: approx. 870 mm × 400 mm × 200 mm. Weight: 10.5 kg _______________________ Our Philosophy Objects always tell the truth. All I can do is just to face with them sincerely and give them deep affection as much as I can. There is no boundary of nationalities and of eras in beauty. But I think now is the time we choose 'Japanese style' and it will be the best way to remind us of what we are losing today and to question us about an essence of beauty again. I hope that you can touch the memories which the objects here have, feel and think of something invisible but exists undoubtedly.

Similar to:
Axel Vervoordt (Designer)
Dimensions:
Height: 69.3 in (176 cm)Width: 63.78 in (162 cm)Depth: 1.97 in (5 cm)
Style:
Edo (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Fabric,Hand-Crafted
Place of Origin:
Japan
Period:
Late 19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
1800s-1860s
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Chōsei District Nagara, JP
Reference Number:
1stDibs: LU10403247909142

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