Vintage Japanese Black Ramie Haori with Khaki Habotai Silk Lining with Daruma figures
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Dimensions: 50-0”w x 39-0”L
This Haori is made of a fiber called Ramie (Karamushi, Choma) that is specifically made to be worn on rainy days because it is breathable and moisture absorbent, making it cool and comfortable to wear and reversible. Ramie is a fine, delicate, and shiny fabric and is very similar to silk and wrinkles more easily than silk. The arm panels are fully attached to the body of the jacket as opposed to the Kimono that are allowed to flow separately to the garment. This jacket has five crests of arms called “Kamon” representing the family and dyed white and referred to as 'Maruni katabami’. This style is held together by a braided inner belt called a hime, which is either tied or hooked. This piece is signed on the front of the lapel with the maker's mark.
What makes this piece unique and unusual is that on the reverse lining of the jacket, there is the image of a monk named Daruma, (Bodhidharma) a symbol of intention and perseverance. The story goes that when the person is out in public, the image on the jacket is inside, and when he wants to reveal his real nature, (メッキが剥げる) the “gilding” comes off as he reverses the jacket showing his beliefs and character to others.
The interior graphic design is made on Khaki Habotai Silk, (also known as “China Silk”) fabric that is light, and delicate with a smooth finish and flowing drape. This type of haori was once worn by samurai warriors, Sama (様, さま), and men of rank wearing them over the ceremonial kimono as a separate clothing element to be worn over a kimono to protect it from inclement weather.
Additional Information: Most of these Daruma,(Bodhidharma), characters found on antique wood, ceramics, works on paper and vintage clothing were inspired by Roryukan Shonen Sheshi (1849-1918). The writings associated with the graphic on this piece have a loose interpretation of the Zen proverb, “nana korobi ya oki” which means “fall seven times, get up eight”, and refers to persevering through numerous setbacks, never giving up until some goal is attained. A goal revered by samurai and men of authority (Sama). See the last image on this listing.
Vintage Condition: Excellent showing no wear to the fabric or fading.
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