A Pair of Patched Monpe: Kasuri Trousers

ca. mid twentieth century
roughly: 32" x 23", 81 cm x 58.5 cm

This is a pair of patched and mended cotton, kasuri monpe, a kind of loose-fitting work trousers.  These monpe are constructed like tattuske trousers, that is, they are slit open on both sides and they tie around the waist.

Monpe were worn by farm women and also by city dwellers who would wear these trousers while at work, either at home or at a trade.

This particular pair is hand sewn from indigo dyed cotton kasuri and is patched with eight pieces of kasuri dyed cotton.  The condition is good, the cotton is well worn but still quite bright and strong.

A lovely pair of real monpe from a time in Japan when some women still wore this traditional garb.