Bidspirit auction | AN ELABORATE 19C. JAPANESE FIREMAN'S

AN ELABORATE 19C. JAPANESE FIREMAN'S COAT SIGNED HIRAI - The rare artist-signed 19th century 'firefighter's' coat was made by hand stitching together multiple layers of loomed cotton fabric using thousands of sashiko stitches. The striking design features a samurai figure vanquishing an ogre or demon beast. Given that these richly decorated coats were worn by merchants and local officials, rather than firefighters, during parades and celebrations after the fire, the merchant name Manko Rice Store inscribed on the lapels adds to this outstanding example, whose complex decoration honored the firefighter's full-body tattoos. Below the merchant inscription the work is signed Made by Hirai on the lower lapel. Measures 36.5 x 46 inches. 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 36.5 x 46 inches. Condition Very good condition, no major damage, repair or odor. 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.