This listing is for a vintage Japanese haori jacket that would have been worn on top of a vintage kimono on a chilly day.  Black haori like this are sometimes called "visiting haori" since they were worn for sem-formal occasions, like attending a community gathering.

This haori features an amazing embroidery expertise.  Yes, the small geometric shape on the front left panel is well done, and the single crest is delicately embroidered.  But it's the fan-shaped scene on the lower back that is the star.  

Five very finely embroidered figures sit seiza-style, dressed in flowing layers of Meiji Period kimono and high court garments.  From the make up of the group we assume it depicts a scene from The Tale of Genji, set in this time period, with the featured female and author - Murasaki Shikibu - in the center.

The mastery of the embroiderer is evident in the precise stitching that created not only the detail of the fabrics but the lines in the faces. So much incredibly fine artisanship. 

Haori do not cross over or tie with a sash, like a kimono does - they are meant to be worn open to reveal a bit of what is worn beneath. An optional accessory is the haori himo - little woven ties that are hooked to the little fabric loops that you'll find on at the mid-front of the haori - but they are sold separately. We'll select one that goes with this haori if you pick the Add A Himo Pair option above. To choose a pair of our fancier himo, CLICK HERE.

Going to display this haori? We offer wooden display rods in four colors to choose from. Add one from the tab below this description.

To learn more about the different styles of kimono jacket, watch the video below.