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Antique Large Bag Made of Japanese Paper and Rope / 1868-1920 / Wabi-Sabi Object

$1,100
£845.09
€971
CA$1,547.29
A$1,738.31
CHF 908.27
MX$21,216.85
NOK 11,532.35
SEK 10,855.28
DKK 7,245.95

About the Item

This is a highly valued paper bag made from farm tools from the Meiji to Taisho periods (c. 1868-1920). Originally used at silk mills to store dried silkworm cocoons for long periods of time, it is not intended for transportation and therefore has no strings. It is made from soft, well-kneaded washi paper, and the surface is coated with persimmon tannins to enhance its strength and durability. Furthermore, a time-consuming innovation is involved: thin threads are sandwiched between the layers of washi paper in a mesh pattern, achieving both flexibility and reinforcement. While cotton bags were the norm at silk mills at the time, these washi bags reportedly accounted for only 20-30% of the total, and were often custom-made by silk mills particular about quality. While most paper bags are simple white, this one stands out with its deep persimmon tannin color and the patchwork look you'd expect from ancient times. The texture of the aged paper has a unique feel, exuding an antique presence. In addition to its original purpose, in modern spaces it can also be hung on the wall like a tapestry, or filled with stuffing and loosely tied to create a three-dimensional object. This exquisite piece will add warmth to both traditional Japanese spaces and more inorganic modern interiors. When flat, it measures 88cm wide x 1.5cm deep x 108.5cm high, and weighs approximately 0.8kg. When filled, it measures approximately 54cm wide x 50cm deep x 91cm high. The stuffing used in the photos is not included. Item number: OB297 [Our Social Role] -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- We are a specialized team dealing in antiques and vintage items, comprised of stores based on three distinct brands. While focusing on Japanese items, we also offer a carefully curated selection of attractive goods from around the world—each evoking the culture and history of its country of origin. Unlike the traditional Japanese antique furniture and art that have been appreciated overseas until now, we shine a light on the tools and furniture that were used for many years in ordinary Japanese homes and farmhouses. These objects have gained a unique charm over time, their beauty deepened by the history accumulated through daily life. In today’s world, however, many of these precious items are discarded during home demolitions. We are committed to reassessing their value and passing them on to future generations. Drawing from our extensive experience—having seen tens of thousands of items through direct purchases, markets, and auction houses—we carefully select and present only the most captivating pieces. This is something made possible only through the years of knowledge and expertise we have cultivated. Rather than focusing on the widely known facets of Japanese art and culture, we highlight the subtle beauty born from the everyday life of common people. It is this rediscovered beauty, steeped in history, that we strive to share with the world.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 35.83 in (91 cm)Width: 19.69 in (50 cm)Depth: 21.26 in (54 cm)
  • Style:
    Meiji (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1868-1920
  • Condition:
  • Seller Location:
    Sammu-shi, JP
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5487246098492

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