Antique Japanese Osa (Weaving Comb)
Unusually large weaving comb with deeply cut teeth and a rich dark patina · Meiji–Taishō period (c. 1890s–1920s).
This antique Japanese osa was sourced in Japan and selected for its craftsmanship, history, and quiet presence.
ABOUT THIS PIECE
This unusually large Japanese osa (筬) is a traditional weaving implement used to organise threads during the weaving process.
Carved from a single substantial piece of oak, this example has an unusual construction. Rather than the framed form more commonly encountered, its numerous divisions are deeply cut directly into the solid wood, creating a strong and regular comb-like profile along almost its entire 107 cm length. Projecting wooden elements at the ends formed part of its original working construction.
Its precise specialised weaving application has not been established. The particularly robust construction suggests that it was made for a different purpose or type of weaving from the more familiar framed osa, but without further evidence we prefer not to attribute it to a particular textile tradition.
Age and long use have given the oak a deep brown surface, with wear, marks and subtle variations throughout. The combination of its exceptional length, repetitive carved geometry and aged surface gives what was originally a practical working tool a particularly strong sculptural presence today. Its simplicity, deeply worn surface and visible traces of use also give the piece a particularly strong wabi-sabi character.
CULTURAL NOTE
The osa (筬) has been an important component of traditional Japanese weaving for centuries. Its comb-like divisions organise the warp threads and, depending on the loom and weaving technique, can also assist in positioning or beating the newly inserted weft.
Osa were made in different forms according to their particular function. The type most frequently encountered consists of numerous fine divisions arranged within a wooden frame. This example is noticeably different, being carved directly from a single substantial length of wood.
Old Japanese textile tools were primarily made for function rather than decoration, but their repetitive forms, careful construction and surfaces transformed through decades of handling can give them considerable visual character once removed from their original working context.
DELIVERY
Delivery is included in the prices shown for Europe, the United States and Japan. For other destinations, please contact us for a delivered price.
Secure, reinforced packaging with tracking.
Note: Import duties or taxes may apply depending on the regulations of the destination country. For items over 100 years old, reduced import duties or taxes may apply in some countries. On request, we can provide a certificate stating the item’s estimated age to assist with customs clearance.
DETAILS & PRICE
SKU: A200
Price:
Europe: €480 — delivery to Europe included
United States: US$550 — delivery to the USA included
Japan: ¥45,000 — delivery within Japan included
Material: Kashi (Japanese oak)
Period: Meiji–Taishō period (c. 1890s–1920s)
Origin: Japan
Features:
Unusually large osa carved from a single piece of wood; deeply cut regular divisions; projecting end elements; rich dark aged patina
Dimensions: L107 × W7 × H5 cm (42.1 × 2.8 × 2 in)
Condition:
Good antique condition, with wear, marks and surface variations consistent with age and traditional use.
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