Embroidery sample box
Name/Title
Embroidery sample boxEntry/Object ID
2020.155Description
Wooden box with samples in the forms of a semamori booklet, 16 handmade thimbles, and embroidered fabric swatches. Each delicately embroidered thimble has a unique and colorful design, using both sashiko and semamori stitches, while the swatches are largely examples of sashiko geometric stitching.Context
Semamori (背守り), translating to “spine protector,” is the Japanese practice of stitching protective symbols onto the back of a kimono to ward off harm and evil spirits. Dating back to the Edo period, this art was typically practiced on the clothing of children, and continues to be used today. The booklet in this sample box suggests the artist was perfecting their semamori before using them in a more permanent location, most likely the clothing of a loved one.Category
Embroidery, Tools