Jinbaori

The origin of the jinbaori is not known. It is not to be worn in actual fighting, but it is only a ceremonial garment for use in camp; it has the advantage of giving a more important appearance to the wearer. It is worn when beginning a march, retreating to rest, at inspections, when triumphantly returning, when calling upon anyone of higher rank than oneself, at the assembly of officers, when sent out as an ambassador, etc. Anyone holding an important position must wear one always.

Garbutt adds: The statement that the Jinbaori was not worn in acutal fighting would seem to accord with the requirements of convenience, but in drawings one often sees it upon men in action. As actual examples are not often seen two additional illustrations are presented to show its appearance. Fig 38, Kato Kiyomasa in Corea, in 1592, shows a front view, and the long tabs buttoned upon the chest to stop it opening too freely in front. Fig 39 shoes the arrangement of the back clearly - and it may be noted that the decoration, a hare gambolling over the waves, is the same as shown in the example from the Tanki Yoriaku.