Antique Japanese Hikeshi Banten Fireman’s Coat in Indigo & Kakishibu

Cuff-to-cuff width: Approximately 45 inches
Body width: Approximately 21.5 inches
Length: Approximately 39 inches
Japan · Meiji period, approximately 1880–1905 · Cotton

This Japanese fireman’s coat, or hikeshi banten, has two very different sides. The indigo face has striped sleeves, wide pale bands, and a large circular brigade insignia in faded red and cream.

Turn it over and the reverse is amber-brown kakishibu, traditionally dyed with persimmon tannin. Dense sashiko stitching runs through the cotton on both sides.

The circular insignia on the back includes 義 (gi/yoshi), the kanji for righteousness, justice, duty, and honor. With the color and stitching changing so much from one face to the other, either side works well for display.

Details

• Techniques: Sashiko stitching, indigo dye, and kakishibu persimmon dye
• Weight: Approximately 2 pounds, 14.8 ounces

Condition

It’s in excellent antique condition. The sashiko stitching is dense and intact, with rich indigo and amber color and clear brigade markings.