navy blue cape with tan vertical stripes and triangles on outer side; navy blue, brown, and tan patterned lining; two brown hooks attached by navy rope at neck; two rope loops at shoulders/back of neck (one navy, one black); navy rope loops at PR hip and PL front center; beige border with line of openings

Travel cape (bōzugappa), late 19th-early 20th century

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Essentially a circle of cloth with a slit opening and hole for the neck, a bōzugappa has a deceptively simple appearance. The cape’s multilayered construction includes an inner layer of waterproofed paper, resulting in a water- and wind-resistant garment. Its maker’s skill and eye for design is also evident in the clever piecing of the cloth. Made from triangular-shaped sections of striped cloth, the wedges converge at diagonals, creating a bold chevron pattern that directs the eye to the wearer’s face. The maker who cut and sewed this garment undoubtedly had this effect in mind.

Details
Title
Travel cape (bōzugappa)
Role
Maker
Accession Number
2019.20.119
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 cape with tan vertical stripes and triangles on outer side; navy blue, brown, and tan patterned lining; two brown hooks attached by navy rope at neck; two rope loops at shoulders/back of neck (one navy, one black); navy rope loops at PR hip and PL front center; beige border with line of openings