This striking traditional worker’s jacket represents the spirit of craftsmanship and community identity in Japan’s late Edo to early Meiji period. Such jackets were worn by artisans, merchants, and tradespeople, serving both practical and symbolic purposes.
The jacket is made of sturdy black cotton, designed for durability during daily work. Its bold white resist-dyed patterns cover the front and back, transforming a functional garment into a statement of pride and belonging.
Front: Strong geometric motifs arranged in rectilinear blocks, emphasizing balance, structure, and strength.
Back: A large circular crest encasing the character 豊 (Yutaka / abundance, prosperity), signifying success and good fortune. This mon would have identified the wearer’s shop, guild, or employer, acting like a traditional “uniform” while also projecting auspicious meaning.
Inside, a surprise of color emerges with a blue-dyed lining, giving the jacket depth and a subtle elegance beyond its exterior toughness.
Worker’s jackets like this were deeply tied to Japanese trade culture. Shops, warehouses, and workshops often issued them to their employees, who wore them not just as protection but as symbols of loyalty. Much like a modern company uniform or logo, the bold designs communicated group identity, professionalism, and pride in one’s craft.
