navy blue base with darker blue collar; off white starburst embroidery covering sleeves and shoulders, with three distinct flowers on back

Boy’s swordsmanship uniform (kendō-gi), early 20th century

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This garment is a uniform worn by boys when practicing kendo, a traditional Japanese martial art that descends from swordsmanship. Ease of movement is essential; hence its narrow sleeves and slits along the seams on the lower half. To reinforce the fabric and protect the wearer from the blows of opponents during practice, the upper half is embroidered with an interconnected pattern called asanoha, a stylized hemp leaf. On the back of the garment are three unique renditions of cherry blossoms placed within a lozenge shape, called matsukawabishi.

Details
Title
Boy’s swordsmanship uniform (kendō-gi)
Role
Maker
Accession Number
2019.20.71
Catalogue Raisonne
Murray et al. 2018, pl. 114
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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navy blue base with darker blue collar; off white starburst embroidery covering sleeves and shoulders, with three distinct flowers on back