Description
This is a fabulous example of a Japanese Man’s “Haori” or formal topcoat. It is entirely handmade, totally reversible, and has represented the height of formal ware for Japanese men for centuries. The outer layer of the garment is a very heavy, high quality, solid black Satin Silk with the exception of 5 white circles within which a pictorial symbol of the family crest or “Mon” has been painted. This family crest was one of the most difficult to create on Silk, and represents the Sun or “Hi” encircled by celestial elements. The solar symbol was derived from Japan’s legendary origins and the alleged genesis of the Imperial Family from the Sun Goddess. The inner stripe or “Hikiryo” in the center of the sun symbol implies a strong martial connection as it was used on banners in the earliest times to distinguish the fighting clans on the battlefield.
What makes the Haori for men so intriguing is the fact that the main source of decoration is on the inside of the garment (shown left), or the lining. The inner back panel of this dramatic Haori has been magnificently hand woven in 2 geometric shapes: the white circle or “Maru” which stands for perfection, harmony and completeness and which encloses the Kanji symbols; and the square or “Kiku” that portrays a dramatic vista of a rocky promontory overlooking the Inland Sea. The setting for this scene has been woven in a rare and unusual shade of light purple, while it also includes pure gold threads…all of which shine on the dark burnished gold background color of the inner lining which continues around the front of the garment. Only a member of a family of wealth and high status could have worn a garment of this quality.
A Certificate of Authenticity is included.
TTAC will personally pack and ship via UPS at company expense within the continental U.S.