Bidspirit auction | A MEIJI PERIOD JAPANESE FIREFIGHTING

A MEIJI PERIOD JAPANESE FIREFIGHTING COAT, ADAIR ESTATE - The rare 19th century 'firefighter's' coat, made by hand stitching together multiple layers of loomed cotton fabric using thousands of sashiko stitches, features mythological figures and a writhing dragon among auspicious cloud swirls. Richly decorated coats of this type were worn in celebrations after a fire was vanquished to honor the heroic firefighters whose equally elaborate full-body tattoos were regarded as symbols of courage and civic pride. Measures 46.5 x 46.5 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 46.5 x 46.5 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.