NEW HAMBURG.- In the rich tapestry of Japanese textile art, few elements are as simultaneously ubiquitous and overlooked as the women's haori. This traditional jacket, worn over a kimono, has been a staple of Japanese women's attire since the early 20th century, yet has often been overshadowed by its more famous counterpart in both cultural discourse and artistic appreciation. "The Japanese Haori: An Avant-Garde Renaissance in Textile Art" seeks to rectify this oversight, shining a spotlight on the exquisite artistry and historical significance of women's haori from the early 20th century through the late Showa period.



This comprehensive study presents a carefully curated collection spanning from 1912 to around 1980, offering a unique window into the evolving aesthetics, technologies, and social norms of 20th century Japan. The book explores how these garments served as canvases for an astonishing array of artistic techniques—from the subtle elegance of shibori dyeing to the bold patterns of stenciled designs, from delicate hand-painted scenes to the technological marvel of meisen weaving. Each chapter is dedicated to different artistic techniques, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the methods used in haori decoration and the cultural significance these garments held as subtle yet powerful means of self-expression.



Particularly fascinating is the book's exploration of how Japanese textile artists were creating avant-garde designs that prefigured Western art movements of the 1950s and 1960s, such as Pop Art and Op Art, showcasing a remarkable parallel development in artistic expression decades before similar aesthetics gained prominence in the West. The haori thus emerges not merely as a garment, but as a testament to the dynamic cultural exchange between East and West throughout the 20th century, embodying the innovative spirit of Japanese textile artisans who transformed simple jackets into wearable masterpieces.



"The Japanese Haori: An Avant-Garde Renaissance in Textile Art" showcases over 300 color images featuring about 130 of the world's superior collection of women's haori, as well as many rare ethnographic images and artworks which depict the haori being worn. The book includes over a hundred close-up shots to highlight the extraordinary craftsmanship behind these textiles. This first edition is limited to 500 copies and each copy is signed by the author.