Attush (coat), Ainu People
Hokkaido, Japan, late 19th c.
Elm bark with applique Japanese cotton and embroidery
117 x 117 cm (3' 10" x 3' 10")
#17740

Attush garments are closely related to the Ainu's animistic belief that spiritual beings reside within all parts of nature.
The elaborate rituals of the Ainu were meant to regulate the spirits, to please and cajole the beneficial spirits while
warding off the evil demons. Designs are placed around all of the openings to prevent the evil spirits from entering.
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