ca. mid twentieth century
42 1/2" x 49", 108 cm x 123.5 cm

This is a really wonderful work kimono or nagagi whose exterior is as beautiful as its interior: it is entirely reversible and holds interest on whichever side is being admired.

The proper exterior is a fabulous collage of old cloth: note the three patterns of katazome cloth that are used: the large, central panel on back shows a lazy lattice of well covers; the purple colored katazome cloth shows tsubame or swallows, around the neck and on the sleeve cuffs is a simple dot-patterned indigo dyed katazome fabric. 

The color palette of the exterior of the nagagi is comprised of wonderfully harmonious, earthy colors.  Note the small, pocket adhered to the proper, left chest area: this is really unusual since traditional Japanese clothing were not sewn with pockets: that is what sleeves and sashes were used for.  This detail indicates that this nagagi was sewn in the 20th century, although some of the fabrics used may be earlier.

The pieced interior of the coat is sewn from a variety of indigo dyed cottons in a free-form arrangement and effect is exuberant and eye catching. 

The condition of the piece, overall, is good.  There is a slight bit of loss to the proper, left front of the coat as well as to the collar area, which can be seen in detail photos.

A marvelously good work kimono and very recommended.