· Era: Taisho – Early Showa Period (approx. 1910s–1930s)
· Material: Wool
· Color: Dark Charcoal (near-black)

── The Aesthetics of Restraint ──

The literary man striding through the brick streets of Ginza.
The artist composing poetry in a dimly lit café.
The gentleman heading to the Imperial Theatre on a winter night.
This Tonbi carries the quiet gravity of that era.

■ What Is a Tonbi Coat?
The Tonbi (also known as Niju-Mawashi, meaning "double wrap") is a sleeveless cape-style overcoat beloved by Japanese intellectuals, writers, and craftsmen from the late Meiji through the Taisho and early Showa periods. Its origins trace back to the Inverness Cape — born in the Scottish Highlands and arriving in Japan in the latter half of the 19th century, where it was embraced for its ability to be worn over both kimono and Western dress, evolving into something distinctly Japanese.
You may recognise the silhouette: it shares the same lineage as the coat worn by Sherlock Holmes. A rare garment where Eastern and Western aesthetics converge.
The double-layer structure — a cape enveloping the shoulders and arms, with a long coat beneath — is a masterpiece of functional beauty, balancing warmth and freedom of movement. This silhouette walked the same streets as literary giants Natsume Soseki and Ryunosuke Akutagawa.

■ Why This Piece Is Special
The vast majority of surviving vintage Tonbi coats are black. Charcoal grey is already rare — but this piece goes further: a dark charcoal that shifts toward black depending on the light, carrying a depth and quiet dignity that pure black cannot replicate.
And it has no fur collar. No ornamentation of any kind. Just the silhouette, stripped to its essence. Because when there is nothing unnecessary, the form itself speaks. This is masculine aesthetics made tangible.

■ Who This Is For
— Lovers of Taisho Roman and Showa Modern aesthetics
— Those who style kimono, Meisen, or Japanese antique dress
— Fans of retro cafés, Meiji-era architecture, and literary Japan
— Those seeking an authentic Inverness cape for cosplay or stage costume
— Anyone drawn to genderless, oversized silhouettes
Pairs beautifully with a T-shirt, wide trousers, chukka boots, or geta sandals.
No two are alike. A witness to history, now in your hands.

■ SIZE
· Length (back neckline to hem): approx. 120 cm / 47.2 in
· Chest (straight across underarm): approx. 58 cm / 22.8 in
※ Please allow for minor measurement discrepancies.

■ CONDITION
· One button has a chip.
· Some areas of surface fabric wear are present.
· The pocket lining (sleeky) has a tear.
Please examine all photos carefully before purchasing.
This item has not been laundered or treated. A vintage-specific odour is present. Please note that damage, odour, or changes arising after washing or wearing are not eligible for return or exchange. This item is intended for buyers who understand and appreciate the nature of vintage goods.
※ This item will be compressed for shipping. Some creasing may occur. Please be aware of this before purchasing.
※ Any other items shown on the model are not included.

■ MORE TONBI COATS FROM NAMBA SHOUTEN

→ Charcoal Grey Wool Tonbi | Taisho Roman / Showa Retro
→ Black Wool Tonbi | Taisho–Early Showa | Double Cape
→ Black Wool Tonbi | 1920s–1930s | No Fur Collar
→ Black Wool Tonbi | 1920s–1930s | Fur Collar
→ Vintage Japanese Tonbi Cloak | Early 20th Century
→ Black Wool Tonbi | 1920s | Removable Otter Fur Collar
→ Japanese Vintage Inverness Coat / Tonbi Mantle | Antique Wool