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Firefighter’s Suit (Kaji shōzoku)
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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 / Maker | Japan, Edo period (1615–1868) |
|---|---|
| Date | late 1700s |
| Culture / Origin | Japan, Edo period (1615–1868) |
| Medium | Wool (rasha); applique and silk and gold thread cord |
| Dimensions | 129.9 x 120 cm (51 1/8 x 47 1/4 in.) |
| Department | Japanese Art |
| Type | Textile |
About the Artist
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
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