Bidspirit auction | JAPANESE FIREMAN'S COAT WITH BRICK

JAPANESE FIREMAN'S COAT WITH BRICK MOTIF, ADAIR ESTATE - The striking Japanese firefighter's jacket of thick multi-layered hand-loomed cotton is decorated in precise stencil-resist dyeing of white and indigo creating an overall brickwork pattern, presumably to symbolize fire-resistance, and the firefighter as a protective barrier. In 19th century Japan, Edo, the country's largest city was a densely built urban environment constructed from paper and wood. Large fires could erase entire districts overnight. Brick construction was rare in Edo (Tokyo) before the late 19th century. After the Meiji Restoration, when contact with the west opened up following 200 years of isolation (and the million-person city of Edo became known as Tokyo), Western-style masonry architecture began appearing more widely. This firefighter's robe of brick-and-mortar design may represent the modernization of Tokyo's architecture and fire resistance. The jacket's front lapels are emblazoned with what are presumed to be the characters of a Japanese fire district brigade. Pants in the same motif are included. Coat measures 50 x 48 inches. Pants measures 40 x 40 inches not including ties. Without proof of exemption, be aware that internet sales tax applies to all Internet transactions and local sales tax may apply to local pick-up transactions. We happily provide seamless in-house packing and shipping services on nearly everything we sell. Until further notice, we cannot offer international shipping in-house. Dimensions Coat measures 50 x 48 inches. Pants measures 40 x 40 inches not including ties. Condition Very good condition, noting a few areas of light fade. Provenance Provenance: The estate of John Adair Jr. (1942-2025), founder and proprietor of Kurofune Antiques, Tokyo (est. 1978). A world-renowned destination for Japanese basketry, prints and furniture, Kurofune was a landmark destination featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal.