Bag for Koran c. early 20th century

This Bag for Koran, made by an anonymous artist, is a textile artwork whose approach to design feels deeply intuitive. The maker seems to enjoy the process of combining colors and patterns, working with the materials at hand to create something both functional and visually striking. The bag is a patchwork of different fabrics, stitched together with care. Look closely, and you'll see the textures of the different textiles: stripes, zigzags, stars and geometric motifs, each with its own history and character. The colors are rich and warm, reds and greens punctuated by the solid black of the straps. Notice how the embroidered designs add a layer of detail and complexity. The stitches are visible, emphasizing the handmade quality of the piece. For me, this bag speaks to the tradition of quilting and folk art, reminiscent of Rosie Lee Tompkins’s quilts. Like Tompkins, the anonymous creator transforms humble materials into something beautiful and meaningful, inviting us to appreciate the ongoing conversation between art, craft, and cultural expression. It is a celebration of the handmade, embodying the idea that art is a process of discovery and transformation.