A Handsome Indigo Dyed Cotton Work Coat: Re-Purposed Cottons

early twentieth century
shoulder to hem x sleeve tip to sleeve tip: 32" x 46 3/4", 81.5 cm x 119 cm

This is a good looking, indigo dyed cotton work coat made of recycled cottons. The noragi, or work coat, shows a wonderful patina from age, both inside and out. Its sturdy condition makes it wearable, even today.

Looking carefully at the photos here you will see the lovely fading and wear that has exerted itself on the surface of the coat. The striped indigo dyed cotton of the exterior of the coat shows a soft fading and good wear. The inside which is of a brownish, striped cotton has a similar quality--the contrast of tone between the lining and the outside is attractive.

Note the patch on the proper, right sleeve, on the back of the jacket and on the inside. Note as well the collar of the jacket which was recycled and turned inside-out from a happi coat which is a kind of uniform used in work or for participating at festivals.

The coat, although quite worn, is not tattered or weakened and it can certainly still be worn if you choose to do that. Otherwise it is a great study piece or would look fantastic displayed as art.

This is a simply beautiful coat.

Recommended.