Bidspirit auction | A LATE 19TH TO EARLY

A LATE 19TH TO EARLY 20TH CEN JAPANESE FIREMAN'S HELMET - A classic working example with stenciled dye resist stylized characters, possibly identifying the specific neighborhood brigade or district, the interior dyed in a masonry pattern perhaps signifying the stopping of a fire. These heavy cotton hoods or helmets were made from thick indigo dyed cloth quilted with thousands of dense sashiko stitches. The rounded dome is fitted with a narrow oval face or eye opening. Firefighters would submerge these in water and don them prior to entering burning wooden structures, a common occurrence in Japan's wood and paper towns and cities. Measures 23.75 inches tall. 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 Measures 23.75 inches tall. Condition Clean and odor free with intact edges details, no major damage, repair or stain. Provenance Provenance: The estate of John Adair Jr. (1942-2025), founder and proprietor of Kurofune Antiques in Tokyo (est. 1978), a world-renowned destination for Japanese basketry, prints and furniture featured in The New York Times, The New Yorker, and The Wall Street Journal.