DESCRIPTION

This fine leather jacket is of Swedish origin and was produced by Bäckes in Malung. Malung, situated in the province of Dalarna in central Sweden, was the country’s centre for the production of leather goods for much of the 20th century. This jacket dates from the 1920s and has several details characteristic of jackets from the period, which distinguish them from those of the following decades, including the narrow, sloping shoulders and the scalloped back yoke. The leather is also typical of the period. It is made from exceptionally soft nappa leather, probably goatskin. The silhouette also has a distinct 1920s character, becoming almost bell-shaped when the belt is tightened at the waist, partly due to its rather generous length.

The jacket is double-breasted and has three rows of buttons. At the top of the neck there is an additional button which can be fastened when the weather is particularly cold and windy. It has horizontal front pockets with substantial pocket flaps, and there is a buttonhole in the left lapel. There are straps at the cuffs. The waist is belted. Inside, the jacket is fully lined with a soft light-brown wool cloth. It has a substantial inner pocket on the right-hand side.

As for the condition, let us first note that the jacket has acquired a lovely patina. There is, of course, some minor damage to the leather, as one might expect from a jacket that is now over 100 years old, but nothing particularly serious. The most noticeable damage is perhaps to the cuff straps. The more substantial damage is found on the inside, in the lining. None of this, however, really requires any attention. The buttons are original and all are present apart from one of the buttons on one of the cuffs. One possible solution would be to remove the corresponding button from the other cuff. It is rarely necessary to use both cuff buttons anyway; in most cases, only one is used and there is no need to adjust the size of the cuff opening, which is the purpose of having two buttons there.

All in all, this is a very fine and unusual jacket which should be able to be worn for many years to come if properly cared for. Please study the photographs and form your own opinion of the condition.

SIZE

In terms of modern sizing, this corresponds to an EU 52 (US/UK 42). It is worth noting that the sleeves are particularly generous in length, meaning that a fairly tall person can wear this jacket with a good fit. Based on the sleeve length, we believe that the jacket was made for someone at least 190 cm (6'3") tall. Please scroll down for the exact measurements.