Extremely rare shifu (paper cloth) hanten 半纏 (short jacket). This material is a combination of cotton, for the warp, and washi (paper), for weft. This material saw peak production in the Edo Period and was highly valued, as it is cool in summer and warm in winter. Very few artisans keep the tradition alive today.

The back features kanji, possibly 相. The same character is presented in the lapel with an illegible second character.

The chest has a circle, 丸 (maru), with さ (sa) imposed (at a later date) over the original 田 (rice field) possibly a family or business name such as 丸田 (ex. Maruta). Or with さ for Marusa.

• Cotton
• Paper
• 19th Century
• 35" x 49.5" (length, width)
• SKU: FT-2545