Vintage Japanese Mino Rain Cape with Layered Straw Fringe and Dark Cloth Woven Hem Border, Early Showa Period 1927-1945

Vintage Japanese Mino Rain Cape with Layered Straw Fringe and Dark Cloth Woven Hem Border, Early Showa Period 1927-1945

A rare and complete handcrafted mino -- the iconic rain cape of Japan's rural working tradition -- preserved in remarkable condition from the Early Showa period.

A mino is a traditional Japanese rain cape worn by farmers, fishermen, and laborers for centuries as natural weatherproof outerwear. Handwoven entirely from rice straw or rush grass, this vintage example showcases the extraordinary skill of rural Japanese craft -- dense layered fringe radiates outward from a tightly woven body to channel rain away from the wearer's back and shoulders, functioning much like overlapping roof thatch. The U-shaped neck opening is reinforced with tightly braided straw cordage, and thick braided straps frame the front of the cape with structural precision. The lower panel transitions into an open-weave lattice of twisted straw cord, finished at the hem with a distinctive dark cloth woven through the border -- a regional detail that adds visual contrast and helps secure the edge weave. Long twisted rope tie cords complete the piece. Every element is entirely handmade, reflecting the wabi-sabi aesthetic of honest, functional beauty that defined Japan's agrarian material culture.

Today, this mino is far more than a folk artifact -- it is a striking work of fiber art that commands attention in any interior. Displayed on the included wooden stand or mounted flat against a wall, it makes a stunning living room accent or entryway statement piece, bringing warmth and organic texture to minimalist decor or Japandi-style interiors. Its sculptural silhouette and natural golden tones also translate beautifully into a studio or home office as a conversation-starting art installation. For collectors of Japanese folk craft (mingei), vintage Japanese ethnographic objects, or wearable art history, this is an exceptionally rare find -- and a truly unique housewarming gift or gift for Japanophiles.

• Origin: Japan
• Era: 1927-1945 (Early Showa)
• Material: Woven and braided rice straw or rush grass; dark cloth fiber woven into hem border; twisted straw rope ties
• Use: Traditional waterproof rain cape worn by farmers and laborers during field work and wet weather
• Modern Use: Wall-mounted fiber art display; sculptural living room or entryway accent; Japanese folk craft (mingei) collection piece
• Features: Dense layered straw fringe for rain shedding; tightly woven upper body with U-shaped neck opening; braided straw shoulder and edge reinforcement; open-weave lattice lower panel; dark cloth accent woven through hem border; twisted rope tie cords; displayed on a separate wooden stand (included)
• Dimensions: --
• Condition: Excellent

A living testament to Japan's handcraft heritage -- this vintage mino brings the wabi-sabi aesthetic and warmth of rural Japanese folk art 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 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.