During China's Cultural Revolution (1966-1976), the image of Mao Tse-tung was everywhere. Chairman Mao even reached the status of a pseudo-deity and porcelain buttons with his image and Chinese characters on the reverse were believed to bring good luck, protect the wearer and act as a talisman to ward off evil. We unearthed a few sets of these highly collectible buttons during our recent trip east. 1½"-2". Styles may vary slightly.

A Gump's By Mail Exclusive. A limited collection of these elegant three-quarter length coats still worn by men in formal kimono attire. Woven of black silk with the family crest shown in white circles, the secret is on the inside back panel. Here, officials and nobles commissioned superb textile art, befitting their stature. Each of our haori has one of these works of art-handwoven or handpainted. No two alike; please allow us to select. Approx. 50"W x 42"L. Imported 69"L walnut hanging bar with silk tassels offered below.

The obi is an integral part of kimono dressing and also stunning in home decoration. Each of these decades-old collectibles is unique, so colors and patterns will vary. Please allow us to select. The beige-tasseled, 21"L elm wood hanging bar offered below will display your obi with the respect it deserves. Imported. Approx. 13"W x 80"L.with the respect it deserves. Imported. Approx. 13"W x 80"L.Thai Loom BarsHandcrafted of wood, these authentic Thai loom bars (not shown, offered below) were used to weave silk up until the mid-1970s. Today, they weave an altogether different kind of magic in your home, serving as a decorative means by which to turn your collectible silk obi into a wall hanging of flowing elegance, as shown.

A true museum-quality reproduction of an exquisitely made Ch'ing Dynasty c. 1825 imperial robe of pure silk, sumptuously hand embroidered with silk and gold-dipped threads. The fruit pattern on the collar represents fertility. 41"L x 58"W.