A Deeply Colored Yose Han Juban: Piece Constructed Undergarment

ca. early to mid twentieth century
26" x 25 1/2", 66 cm x 64 cm

This brightly colored, festive-looking garment is a han juban, or a half under-kimono which is completely hand stitched from cotton (both hand loomed and power loomed), thin wool, and silk.

Like with most piece constructed undergarments, this han juban is made from repurposed pieces, and, as is the case with many under gaments, great care was taken to create something that is visually interesting and attractive to the eye.

The collar fabric bears special mention as it is fashioned from pieces of 19th century tsumugi or home made silk; it has been dyed in the stencil resist or katazome method and shows a playful pattern of sparrows and bamboo.  The red cloth of the exterior of the han juban is a very light weight wool that was introduced to Japan during the end of the 19th century; the cotton, figured swatches that adorn the exterior of this garment are commercially produced.  The lovely, red checked pieces are silk.

The lining of the han juban is of hand woven cotton, quite nice and rustic and in two tones of a rich, medium value pink color.

Please note that there are some small holes on the exterior of this han juban, of the type shown in the accompanying photos, so please do look carefully.  The holes are not terribly visible, they are small, and they do not distract from the beauty of this traditional, hand stitched han juban from old Japan.

Really lovely.