Japan
Early 20th century
Cotton overdyed with safflower dye
51 ¼” x 38″

Japanese boro are highly collectible for good reason. They express the core value of a culture that honors age and aging, and which recognizes that the loving use of a material thing, including the repairs made along the way, increases its beauty. The finer examples, such as this one, elevate utilitarian objects to the level of art.

This rare shikimono, or “under thing”, is made of patched and mended indigo cotton then overdyed with safflower dye. It was most likely used as a sleeping mat. It has a complex and powerful presence.

Available at Lawton Mull and on view until June 25th 2025 as part of our exhibition, ORDINARY SPLENDOR, a collaboration with Sri.