Furoshiki are traditional Japanese cloths used to wrap and carry belongings. This prewar-era example preserves the words “除隊記念” (“discharge commemoration”) and the personal name “渡部” (Watanabe), giving this everyday textile a direct connection to one person’s military service.

Estimated to date from the late Meiji to early Showa period, before the Second World War, the cotton cloth is believed to be an Imperial Japanese Army discharge commemorative textile. Its exact date, the former owner’s unit, and personal history are not known, so the inscription and design remain the clearest records of its story.

The design is unusually rich: a five-pointed star sits among crossed flagpoles bearing the Japanese national flag and the Rising Sun flag. A laurel wreath frames the composition, with a tassel at the crossing point and a separate cherry blossom emblem on the cloth. The deep blue ground and ivory-colored motifs create a striking contrast, while the formal wreath and radiating flag design give the piece a strong, balanced presence.

Its rarity is in the combination: a prewar, unwashed deadstock furoshiki; the words “除隊記念”; the personal name “渡部”; and a distinctive arrangement of flags, star, laurel wreath, tassel, and cherry blossom. This is a one-of-a-kind named commemorative textile, not a repeatable design. Once this individual piece is sold, it cannot be restocked.

Details

• Material: Cotton
• Estimated period: Late Meiji to early Showa, prewar
• Inscription: “除隊記念” (discharge commemoration) and “渡部” (Watanabe)
• Motifs: Five-pointed star, Japanese national flag, Rising Sun flag, laurel wreath, tassel, and cherry blossom emblem
• Size: Approximately 87 x 85 cm (34.3 x 33.5 in)
• Condition: Unwashed deadstock with age-related flaws

Condition and care

This cloth has never been water-rinsed or washed and retains a crisp, starch-like hand. Deadstock does not mean flawless: small holes, fading, light stains, fraying, and damaged areas are present. Because the cotton is old and unwashed, water or laundering may weaken the fibers and cause further deterioration, tearing, or holes. Please order only if you understand and accept this risk. Washing is not recommended; please review all photos carefully.

Browse the JAPANESE FABRIC Collection

After your purchase, we would be grateful if you shared your thoughts in a review. For questions about sizing, returns, and customs, please visit our FAQ.