This is a gorgeous indigo dyed dochugi, or traveller's cape, woven from kudzu vine. Garments woven out of kudzu might have faded into obscurity had it not been for its favor among the ruling elite of Japan. The vine continues to be harvested and processed for cloth production today, however the technology is being lost to perpetuity, despite the best efforts of folk crafts proponents in Japan to keep it alive. This remarkable jacket is in excellent condition with no damage or stains. There is a small repair where the sleeve meets the body of the garment. The indigo dyed kudzu is rich and vibrant. The piece can be dated back to the early Meiji period (1868). Dimensions: 49 1/4" x 30" Meiji period Item: or0046 http://www.orimetextiles.com