Woman's Ensemble: Cape, Bodysuit, Chaps, and Clogs

Currently not on view

Woman's Ensemble: Cape, Bodysuit, Chaps, and Clogs

1971

This ensemble was inspired by the extravagant costumes and makeup of Japanese Kabuki theater, stylized drama that often parodies the lifestyle of the nobility. The appliqués on the cape depict popular Kabuki characters and a Japanese mask kite. The bodysuit is knitted with the face of a Kabuki samurai actor, presaging the patterned knits for which Kansai became known in the late 1970s and 1980s. The high-heeled clogs are modeled after traditional Japanese okobo, black lacquered platform geta with red straps worn during the summer by apprentice geisha.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Woman's Ensemble: Cape, Bodysuit, Chaps, and Clogs

Date:

1971

Artist:

Medium:

Synthetic satin, wool knit

Classification:

Costume (including accessories)

Credit Line:

Gift of Hess's Department Store, Allentown, 1974

Accession Number:

1974-3-2a--e

Geography:

Made in Japan, Asia

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Currently not on view