A Rustic, Piece Constructed Hemp Cloth Vest: Recycled Fragments

early twentieth century
shoulder to hem x widest part: 24" x 18 1/2", 61 cm x 47 cm

This charming, beautifully constructed vest is composed of pieces of indigo dyed, thick, hand-plied hemp or ramie cloth. Clearly this rustic garment was made from leftover pieces from another garment which was salvaged and re-purposed.

This work vest shows the crossover between tradition and innovation: the button we see on the cotton collar area is a Western influence as button closures were not used in Japan until Japan had contact with the West.

It is always interesting to see blended ideas in traditional Japanese work wear. Although the form and construction of this vest is wholly Japanese--and probably traditional to a specific region (more than likely Tohoku or Japan's Northeastern region) the addition of the button touches on how modern ideas filtered into every day life even into rural parts.

This is a really charming garment which is valuable for its beautiful hand made cloth which is also of a wonderful, indigo color. There are no stains or tears to be seen which adds to its appreciation.

Recommended for its rural integrity and the charm-from-another-era it contains.