Japanese Footwear Appraisal

Flat-Soled Geta (Japanese Wooden Sandals)

This item is a pair of traditional Japanese geta, specifically a more casual style likely for indoor or light outdoor use. The geta are constructed primarily from a light-colored, possibly cedar or pine, wood with a clear grain visible, suggesting a natural finish or light lacquer to enhance the wood's appearance. The soles are flat, single-piece wooden platforms, showcasing visible saw marks or tooling on the sides and ends, particularly on the front and back where the wood has been cut. Notably, the planks lack the traditional 'ha' (teeth) on the underside, which are characteristic of outdoor geta designed to add height and keep kimono hems from dragging. This flat-soled design, combined with the lack of significant elevation, suggests a comfort-oriented or indoor application. Each geta features a black hanao (thong or strap) with a white floral or geometric pattern printed along its length, adding a decorative element. The hanao are inserted into three holes on the wooden platform – one at the front and two at the sides, near the arch area. The hanao appear to be made of a fabric-covered material, possibly cotton or synthetic, with some light wear visible where they meet the wood. On the top surface of each wooden sole, there are clear, dark ink stampings of Japanese characters, likely indicating a brand name, maker, or possibly a location; these markings are bold and distinct. The overall condition appears good with minor signs of use, such as light scuffing on the wood and subtle wear on the straps, consistent with a vintage or used item. The craftsmanship indicates a functional, mass-produced item, though still adhering to traditional forms. The style period is hard to pinpoint precisely without more context but appears to be 20th-century.