Vintage Japanese Sedge Umbrella Hat, 1966 - 1989 (Late Showa) | SKU: 26M-508

Japanese Sugegasa Sedge Umbrella Hat | Wall Decor & Garden Display, 1966-1989 (Late Showa), SKU 26M-508

A handwoven Japanese sugegasa with ink-brushed calligraphy -- a striking piece of living folk craft history.

A sugegasa is a traditional Japanese conical field hat, handwoven from tightly bound sedge grass and worn for centuries by farmers, pilgrims, and travelers to shield against sun and rain. This example, dating to the Late Showa period, displays the hallmarks of skilled regional craft: tightly spaced sedge strips radiating from a knotted crown, a neatly finished brim edge bound in white cord, and a sturdy interior framework of woven ribs that cradles the head. What makes this piece especially collectible is the bold ink-brushed calligraphy swept across the outer surface -- a practice associated with henro pilgrimage hats, where prayers, temple names, or dedications were written directly onto the hat as a spiritual act. The result is a handcrafted Japanese folk object that is as visually arresting as it is historically meaningful.

In a modern home, this sugegasa is a natural statement piece for wabi-sabi or Japandi style interiors. Hung on a wall as a sculptural accent, it brings organic texture and an unmistakable sense of place to an entryway, living room, or meditation corner. The wide conical form also works beautifully as a decorative ceiling pendant shade over a bare bulb, casting warm patterned light through the woven sedge. For collectors and enthusiasts of Japanese folk art and vintage Japanese craft, it makes a genuinely unique housewarming gift or display piece. Pair it with natural linen, wood, and stone for a cohesive minimalist decor aesthetic.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1966-1989 (Late Showa)
• Material: Woven sedge grass (suge) with white cord brim binding and bamboo interior rib frame
• Use: Traditional outdoor field and pilgrimage hat, worn for sun and rain protection
• Modern Use: Wall-mounted decorative accent, pendant lamp shade, or display piece for a Japandi or wabi-sabi styled interior
• Features: Classic wide conical sugegasa form; tightly woven sedge strips radiating from a knotted crown; white cord brim binding; structured interior rib framework; bold ink-brushed calligraphy on the outer surface, consistent with henro pilgrimage tradition
• Dimensions: 15"W x 15"D x 8"H
• Condition: Good vintage condition -- some natural age-related patina and minor wear to the sedge surface consistent with use and age; calligraphy well-preserved

A rare and evocative piece of Japanese folk craft -- this vintage sugegasa carries the spirit of the pilgrimage road into any modern home.

We use professional studio lighting to highlight the natural character of the wood. As a result, the tone may appear slightly warmer than under natural daylight.

All vintage and antique items are sold as-is. Each piece may exhibit signs of age, including scratches, wear, or minor imperfections. These are not considered defects but natural evidence of the item’s authenticity and age.