Jimbaori or
formal campaign jacket for wearing over armor, of indigo dyed wool felt
decorated with a stylized paulownia leaf design and the mon or family
crest design of the Maeda Daimyo in white wool felt and yellow silk
chain stitching, the interior of floral patterned silk brocade with
gold thread, in tones of blue, mauve, yellow, green and black against a
white ground. A tortoise shell button is affixed to one closure, both
of which are edged in indigo resist dyed deer skin. Made for the Maeda
Daimyo or feudal lord of the Kaga fiefdom. Edo Period, 18th century.
With an income of one million koku of rice, the Maeda were the
wealthiest lords apart from the Tokugawa in Edo Period Japan. This
dramatic garment was made to be worn on formal occasions and displays
the pride and power of the Maeda Daimyo. The costly wool felt was
imported from Europe, and like the silk brocade these fabrics were
precious rarities in 18th century Japan. Given its age, superb
condition and graphic design sense, this jimbaori remains a stunning
example of textile art today.
38" long x 26 1/4" wide.
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