New Zealand sheepskin 70×192 black double

Black sheepskin reads as a graphic shape on pale oak or light laminate, and almost disappears on a dark floor. That is the first thing to check before ordering, because the piece is meant to be seen: a single dark island on an otherwise light surface.

The 70×192 cm size comes from construction rather than choice. Two pelts are stitched together along the spine, so the length grows while the width stays that of one animal. The result is a narrow strip with a wavy outline instead of straight edges.

• Material: natural New Zealand sheepskin
• Size: 70×192 cm, double (two pelts joined)
• Colour: deep even black
• Wool: long, soft
• Backing: cream suede
• Care: hand wash with wool detergent
• Item code: 25
• Price: about $275

The elongated shape suggests where it goes: along one side of a bed, in front of a sofa, or between two armchairs. Its closest relative in the same format is the copper red sheepskin 70×192, which is warm in tone where the black one stays neutral.

About care, plainly: detergent powder and a washing machine mat the wool permanently. Wash by hand in cool water with a wool product and dry flat. Other pieces for the same spot are in bedside rugs, and the full natural range sits in natural hides.