A Very Patched Boro Hemp Jacket: Subtle Blue Grey

ca. late nineteenth, early twentieth century
34" x 48", 86.5 cm x 122 cm

This is a marvelous old boro hemp hanten that is shown inside-out in order to display its many patches, its deep patina and its wonderful stitching.

This jacket is well-used, as is quite obvious.  To describe its color is difficult: it is a kind of medium-range grey blue; the hemp cloth itself is woven of exceedingly narrow stripes which gives a misty appearance to the neutral color.

As with most hemp cloth, the fabric of this coat is slightly stiff; age, time and wear has abraded its surface.

This is a really lovely old coat: it is not quite clear if this was a work coat or if it was town wear that was worn hard by someone who had little means.  In any case, it is a potent reminder of life in old Japan.

Recommended.