Firefighter’s ceremonial coat (kajibanten), Japan, eighteenth– nineteenth century, Edo period. This cochineal-dyed cape was likely only used for ceremonial purposes. A sturdier coat, often made of leather, would be worn during firefighting. Wood with gold- and silk-thread embroidery and appliqué, 38 × 48 in. John C. Weber Collection. Photograph by John Bigelow Taylor.

Firefighter’s ceremonial coat (kajibanten), Japan, eighteenth– nineteenth century, Edo period. This cochineal-dyed cape was likely only used for ceremonial purposes. A sturdier coat, often made of leather, would be worn during firefighting. Wood with gold- and silk-thread embroidery and appliqué, 38 × 48 in. John C. Weber Collection. Photograph by John Bigelow Taylor.

Firefighter’s ceremonial coat (kajibanten), Japan, eighteenth– nineteenth century, Edo period. This cochineal-dyed cape was likely only used for ceremonial purposes. A sturdier coat, often made of leather, would be worn during firefighting. Wood with gold- and silk-thread embroidery and appliqué, 38 × 48 in. John C. Weber Collection. Photograph by John Bigelow Taylor.