HANTEN Firefigher Jacket from Azumi

The outer body is deep indigo with striking white horizontal bands across the waistline, a traditional firefighter’s motif that symbolized strength and solidarity. The lapels bear bold white kanji reading 「安雲村消防團」 (Ankumura Shōbōdan – Ankura Village Fire Brigade) along with 「班長」 (Hanchō – Squad Leader), signifying this jacket belonged to a captain-level officer. A vivid red stripe runs along the shoulders, marking authority and adding a dramatic visual contrast.

The reverse displays a powerful brigade emblem painted in resist-dye technique—large stylized kanji encircled within a crest-like design. This commanding symbol ensured instant recognition during the chaos of a fire, reinforcing loyalty to the unit.

In Edo-period Japan, cities were built primarily of wood and paper, making them especially vulnerable to fires. Firefighters, or hikeshi, became local heroes, and their hanten were both armor and identity. Soaked in water before entering the blaze, the quilted layers offered practical protection while the bold designs proclaimed allegiance, bravery, and pride.

High-ranking hanten, such as this squad leader’s jacket, carried even greater significance—symbols of authority and leadership within the brigade.

Detail

• Type: Firefighter’s Hanten (Hikeshi Banten)

• Material: Heavy cotton, sashiko-stitched, resist-dyed insignia

• Color: Indigo ground with white and red details

• Era: Late 19th to early 20th century

• Markings: 「安雲村消防團」 (Ankura Village Fire Brigade), 「班長」 (Squad Leader)

• Condition: Vintage, excellent preserved state with natural patina from age