A Meiji Era Long Hanten: Resist Dyed Pattern and Kanji
shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 42" x 42", 106.5 cm x 106.5 cm
This beautifully patterned cotton coat is called a happi which might be somewhat familiar to those who know about Japanese culture.
A happi is a jacket used by the employees of a business or sometimes by troupes of participants at a temple or neighborhood festival around a Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine.
This jacket is rather long and it shows light wear which is most noticeable around its collar, hem and cuff areas. It is hand stitched from hand spun, hand woven cotton.
The resist dyed pattern which is done in greys and indigo is that of a repeat diamond motif which is more than likely a stylized, square wooden grain measure or masu which is tipped on its side to appear to be a diamond. The masu is an auspicious symbol that conveys a wish for ever-abundant good fortune.
Resist dyed kanji or Chinese characters are emblazoned on the collar as well as high on the center of the back of the happi.
The jacket is partially lined and is still very wearable.
Wonderfully graphic and still quite sturdy this coat's dimensions are listed above as shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip.
Recommended.
