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Firefighter's Suit (Kaji shōzoku) — Japan, Edo period (1615–1868)

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Written by: Diego RomanoContributing Writer · Furniture & Decorative Arts
Asian Art · Catalogue no. 24272
Japan, Edo period (1615–1868)

Firefighter’s Suit (Kaji shōzoku)

StatusReference work · Not for sale
Held byCleveland Museum of Art
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Wood architecture in densely populated areas made firefighting a frequent occurrence in the Edo period (1615–1868). Jackets made of leather or wool offered firefighters protection against the flames. Wool was imported from Europe. The triple ring crest in white is of the “three alternating rings” (<em>mitsurin chigai</em>) type framed in a tortoise shell (<em>kikko</em>) motif, and identified the house with which the wearer was affiliated.

Artist / MakerJapan, Edo period (1615–1868)
Datelate 1700s
Culture / OriginJapan, Edo period (1615–1868)
MediumWool (rasha); applique and silk and gold thread cord
Dimensions129.9 x 120 cm (51 1/8 x 47 1/4 in.)
DepartmentJapanese Art
TypeTextile
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Provenance & Source

Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.

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