Haori

Subject Matter:

Chirimen refers to the unique wrinkled texture, also called crepe texture, created by a specific weaving technique. This texture is often used with traditional Japanese fabrics, often silk, wool, or synthetic fiber. Surihaku gold leaf designs are executed by applying sheets of gold or silver leaf to cloth, usually shusu or rinzu, satins.

The Haori is a traditional Japanese hip or thigh-length jacket with elongated sleeves that is worn over the kimono. The Haori typically includes an interior lining with a design that is otherwise hidden from view when worn.The haori was originally part of a man’s formal attire, but in the nineteenth century, female entertainers in Edo (modern Tokyo) adopted it as a cloak for outdoor wear in mild weather. By the end of the century, married women of the upper class adopted black crepe silk haori with family crests for formal, public occasions. For much of the twentieth century, the haori has been the standard outerwear for a woman who dresses in a kimono outside the home.

Physical Description:

light gray chirimen Komon haori with interwoven light blue and peach peacock feather motifs with a gray and light pink inner lining with tegaki (hand-painted) white and surihaku (gold leaf) peonies.

Usage Rights:

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